WHAT DOES AN ARCHITECT DO?
Most people know that architects design buildings, but this is only a small portion of what architects do to ensure a successful project. The scope of services often includes:

• advice on site selection
• zoning and building by-law analysis
• design development
• coordination of other consultants (surveyors, enegineers, etc)
• liaison with municipalities
• development and building permit submissions
• interior details (cabinetry, stairs, walls, colour, material selection, etc)
• advice on tender and contract options
• tender/construction drawings, specifications
• an opinion on budget estimates
• site reviews/site meetings (with owner and contractor)
• review of shop drawings
• supplementary details as required
• review of contractor progress claims and certificates of completion

HOW LONG DOES THE DESIGN/PERMIT PROCESS TAKE?
This can vary greatly from project to project depending on a number of factors: the type of project; the municipality the application is made in; and whether or not there is an application for a development permit, variances or rezoning. In general, you should expect at least three months for the design process, a minimum of two months for development permits, and a minimum of two months for a building permit. For very small projects these times can be shorter. For projects where rezoning is required, the process can take an additional six months or longer.

ARE ANY OTHER CONSULTANTS REQUIRED?
Yes. An architect can help you choose suitable consultants. For smaller homes, it is typical to have a surveyor, a structural engineer and usually a geotechnical engineer on board. For mid-sized homes, a landscape designer and an interior designer may also be involved. Large commercial projects often include the full range of consultants.

WHAT ITEMS WILL AN ARCHITECT REQUIRE BEFORE GETTING STARTED?
An architect will need a detailed survey of the lot indicating elevations and locations of trees and existing buildings. Adjacent properties may also need to be included on the survey. An architect can help to organize a survey with the proper requirements. It is the owner's responsibility to confirm any covenants or restrictions on the property. A title search is useful in providing this information. If the project is a renovation, drawings of the existing building will be required. The architect can help arrange this.

WHAT ITEMS SHOULD I LOOK FOR IN AN ARCHITECT?
You will be working very closely with your architect, so it is important to find someone who is easy to work with and relate to. Some architects have a distinctive style, whereas other work with a broader range of styles; get a feel for their work, and the scope of their services offered.

The above information has been provided for general reference only. Although every effort has been made to provide accurate information, Blackwell Architecture assumes no liability for incorrect, incomplete, or missing information from this site.