Whether you’re remodeling your home or building a new one, a good architect is vital to a successful project. From designing the house, through finding and negotiating with a contractor, an architect is the most important part of the process.
Architects are licensed by the state to certify their training in the legal and safety issues around construction. Although the regulations vary in each state, you’ll need an architect to prepare drawings for anything requiring changing a structural wall in order to get a building permit. For minor projects, such as painting, replacing windows, or upgrading appliances, permits are not required — but an architect will be able to help you with all this and more.
Tip: Bring the architect into the project as early as possible to help you evaluate locations, define project goals, and prepare initial schedules.
Find an architect you’re comfortable with and who can produce a design you’ll love. Friends and family are good places to start for referrals. Below are four other suggestions for ways to find a good green architect:
1. Look around your neighborhood for new houses you like, and ask the homeowner who the architect was.
2. Contact your local office of the American Institute of Architects (AIA; http://www.aia.org) for a referral Be sure to ask for architects who focus on residential projects. Note: The AIA will only give you names of its members, and not all architects are members of the AIA. This is a good place to start, though.
3. Use the Internet to locate green architects. If you can’t find a local green architect, don’t despair. Many green architects are willing to take on projects around the country, so don’t be shy about contacting an out-of-state architect to discuss your green dream home. Several wonderful green directories will help you find the perfect architect, including:
4. When you compile a list of architects whose work you like, meet with each of them to get an idea of a personality fit. During your meetings, look around the office for green building books, catalogs, and magazines. ....read more