A custom home is a dream for many people. However, once they start the process, they realize just how much work it takes to go from inspiration to design to build and finally occupancy in a custom home build. Although rarely are two projects the same, the same basic steps happen in almost every design process. Of course, you and your architect working together on the plans is the most important. Keep in mind that after your initial meetings, there are many steps before your architect begins drawing plans. Here are just some of the many steps in this journey. We’ll share more in a future blog post.
A few photos from the building process …
What Happens Next
After those early meetings, the ones where you share your vision, wants and needs for your dream home, your residential architect has a lot to do before they start creating your plans. Assuming you already have land on which to build, they will need to check with local zoning, any HOA restrictions, and may need to do a site survey. You may be asked some clarifying questions to discuss and respond to. By doing this before they start designing your home, they save time, and you save money.
Concept Design
One thing that surprises many homeowners who have never been through a custom home build is that there are many sets of plans. Before your architecture firm creates them all (there may be as many as 20 different sets of plans), they want to make sure the layout and the look of the home are what you want. Once you approve a concept design, they can let you know roughly where you are in your budget so you can make changes based on that. You’ll find that generally it is more expensive for you to make changes after the concept design is signed off on. Once you sign off on the concept design, the many sets of building plans begin.
Choosing a Builder
If you haven’t already chosen a builder for your custom home build, ask your architect who they recommend. Choosing one they already have experience working with can benefit you in a few ways. One is that the architect has an established relationship. This leads to more conversation between the foreman and architect when there is a question during the construction process. Additionally, they know their reputation is on the line if they don’t send you to someone who will build your home as you and they created it.
Trust Sandbar Architecture With Your Custom Home Build Design
No matter what you are dreaming of in your new home, you and your architect will have plenty of work to do together. As residential architects, we’ve provided many families with their perfect custom home build design. And, as experienced residential architects, we have many connections with builders and designers. Call us today at (727) 308-1773 or click here to schedule your consultation.