Do I Need an Architect?
Welcome to Berrios Architecture Studio’s blog page, where we explore questions our potential clients may be asking themselves as they anticipate their project’s journey. Since you are here, you are either an architecture fan, or more likely, doing a bit of online research before you undertake a project. One of the first questions generally is, Do I need an architect? Or perhaps, you know you need an architect, but want to dive a bit deeper into the reasons why your selection of an architect matters. Let’s dive right in.
Theoretical
Every great building project, whether it's a new home or a large commercial space, is like a symphony. It's a complex, collaborative effort with many moving parts and skilled professionals, all working to create a single, harmonious piece.
But who is the conductor? Who holds the vision and ensures every instrument plays its part in tune?
That's the architect.
While the builder, plumber, electrician, and other trades are masters of their individual instruments, the architect is the professional with the vision, training, and experience to conduct the entire project from a single score.
On a theoretical level, you need an architect when your project's complexity exceeds a simple, routine task. A small home repair is a solo performance—a simple tune played by one or two instruments. A major remodel or new construction is an entire orchestra. The architect's role is to ensure all the musical sections— the structure, the mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, the finishes, etc.—are all playing in perfect harmony.
The architect's design is the master score. It integrates:
Aesthetics: The melody and rhythm that make the space feel beautiful and inviting.
Functionality: The tempo and flow that ensure the space works as intended.
Engineering: The underlying harmonic structure that makes the building safe and sound.
Regulations: The rules of composition that every musician must follow to be a part of the orchestra.
Without a conductor, the musicians might play their parts well, but the final piece would be a discordant, chaotic mess. An architect's presence is what elevates a construction project from a collection of parts to a cohesive and intentional work of art.
Technical
Your jurisdiction may require a licensed architect. Common technical reasons for this are:
Structural changes - Moving, adding, or removing load-bearing walls or columns. Changing exterior walls, windows, or doors.
Changes in occupancy - Changing the occupancy type, say from an office building to a multi-family residential building, would require an architect to navigate the code compliance, accessibility and life safety updates necessary to create a safe building.
Building Size - Your building surpasses the minimum size, whether area or height, that your jurisdiction allows for non-licensed drawings. This varies by jurisdiction. Some jurisdictions do not require an architect to stamp and sign drawings. However, they will still require you to submit drawings for your project to the authority having jurisdiction.
Financial
If you are considering an architect, your project likely represents a significant financial investment. If that is the case, you should hire an architect that has shown the ability to deliver successful projects that are similar to yours and that fit the style you are looking to achieve. An architect’s fee is not just an added expense, it represents a financial investment. An architect can significantly impact a project’s overall cost, value, and return.
Cost Savings Through Efficiency
Avoiding Errors
Smart Material Selection
Energy Efficiency
Protecting and Increasing Your Investment
Higher Resale Value
Maximizing your Budget
Construction Administration
Risk Vs Reward
Budget Overruns: Unforeseen structural, mechanical, electrical, or plumbing issues, inaccurate bids, and design changes can quickly inflate the cost of a project.
Regulatory Penalties: Failing to meet building codes can lead to expensive fines or a requirement to demolish and rebuild portions of the project.
Reduced Property Value: A poorly designed space can be impractical, unattractive, non-compliant, and difficult to sell, which could ultimately reduce the value of your property.
Whether you're an architecture enthusiast or a potential client, understanding the architect's multifaceted role is crucial. Their value lies in their ability to compose a harmonious space, translating your ideas into a reality that is not only beautiful and functional, but also structurally sound and financially prudent. Choosing Berrios Architecture Studio means choosing a partner who will conduct your project to a successful and well-orchestrated conclusion.