May is National Home Remodeling Month

For National Home Remodeling Month, Studio TJP is offering you key tips to stay on budget and bring vision to reality. Whether a homeowner is dreaming of a bigger, brighter kitchen, a spa-like bath, a spacious primary suite, or a backyard cottage addition. Studio TJP’s architects translate dreams into reality. Here are six reasons why working with an architect can save time and frustration.

“It’s daunting to approach a new home renovation and our team is really adept at taking the long view, considering how a homeowner’s living space will be used over time, so we create environments that adapt and meet the needs of growing or aging residents of the home,” says Ellen F.C. Mirro, Principal.

1. Surprises are inevitable. An architect can identify how to make your vision a reality with practical steps necessary to stay on budget. Dreaming about and achieving your goals may come with challenges and having an architect overseeing the project can help you resolve construction challenges that inevitably pop up. For instance, adding that new window may run into electrical or plumbing that requires attention and affects budget.

2. DIY is not always cheapest. DIYers may think having control from start to finish is the best way to stay on budget, however, this is not typically the case. While some may think changing a sink location at the last minute is an easy fix, an architect can advise on the process, structural changes and expenses tied to that adjustment before you make the change.

“Architects are able to look at plans and suggest tweaks in design that can result in better functionality and space utilization. For instance, we might suggest shifting the bathroom door over one foot to get an amazing and more cozy space,” says Mirro.

An architect keeps an eye on the scope of the project and helps control costs of the project, as a whole, so a homeowner can decide what’s affordable and most important for the lifestyle they’re seeking. Many architects have worked with proven contractors who can seamlessly support the design process. While typical architectural fees range greatly, Studio TJP’s team can clearly communicate their role and assignments, so a homeowner does not rack up unexpected expenses. In the long run, a house designed or remodeled by an architect shows a greater return on investment. And if you want to sell in the future, studies show that architect-designed homes typically sell for above market value.

3. Expertise helps limit environmental impact. Architects are experts about the latest sustainable products and best building practices to preserve the environment. Being good stewards of the environment -- complemented by a keen understanding of how construction will impact the environment, what engineering expertise is required, and which appliances, products and processes can provide a higher-quality design -- will deliver a home with longer-lasting, environmentally friendly results.

4. Architects “speak” code. A homeowner can spend hours trying to understand and apply for permits that allow a renovation to even begin. An architect brings an immediate understanding of building systems, local/regional building code regulations, and knowledge will save you time and money.

5. References translate to success. Don’t hesitate to request references from an architect’s previous clients. Architects are experienced professionals who are in your corner, guiding you through the process of design, permitting, construction, and management of any issues that arise. They act as your advocate and, if needed, your proxy when interacting with contractors, engineers, permit reviewers, and more.

6. Architects help future-proof your home. Future-proofing your home can ensure the environment can adapt to changing needs. An architect can work with you to create a master plan for your home by envisioning the completed goal and making practical plans for working in phases, if needed. Family’s needs change. Children are born. Residents age – whether the owners need an elevator or owners’ parents plan to move in, having a master plan in place helps families stay in the neighborhood of their dreams, while having a clear-cut plan, budget and vision for additions and remodels.

“To ensure the homeowner’s vision is concrete and a constructable reality, hiring a licensed, AIA-registered architect not only has an immediate benefit towards the design and construction process, but is a strategic investment in what can be your most valuable asset,” says Howard Miller, Principal.

Steve Campbell, Principal, adds, “Budgeting is vital. Be up front with your architect and listen to them when they indicate you may need to compromise either budget or project scope to enjoy the home of your dreams.”

Take a look at our portfolio online and reach out with your personal ideas and vision. We look forward to hearing from you.