Why Hire an Architect?
Architects apply impartial and creative thinking to projects large and small, whether you are constructing, adapting or expanding a building. They will guide you through the design, planning and construction process - from the early stage scenario of 'what do I do?' through to completion of the project.
Architects add value, whether it comes from maximising the impact, functionality or marketability of a building.
1. Architects are trained to see the big picture.
Clients generally come to the table with an idea of the space they want created. Architects are highly skilled at synthesizing disparate ideas and turn them into a functioning, sustainable and elegant space. We concentrate on the essence of a client’s program – working to create a solution that is unique to their specific needs.
A3 Architects works with a client to:
-bring insightful solutions to the project that furthers the client’s initial vision
-work to create a timeline for the project
-create an efficient floor plan that can accommodate future change
-work within the budget
-establish a way to phase a project to make it economically viable
At A3, we think about sustainability, and the flexibility of a design and how it can be changed and altered to meet future needs (i.e. a growing family, future accessibility needs, a mother-in-law suite).
2. Architects help the decision-making process.
When building a house there are a lot of decisions to be made. An architect helps with these decisions-bringing their background knowledge of materials, different construction methods, energy saving designs to the table.
Intimate process that gets at fundamental questions about how does one live? What could be a bigger question than that?
3. Architects Can Save you Money
At A3, we focus on energy efficiency in our structures. We believe that with the proper design, site orientation, and material selection- your home can run efficiently and comfortably while saving you money every month.
Additionally, we are familiar with local building prices and can make suggestions to simplify design and thus, construction costs. We’ve worked with a number of local contractors and can help find the right solutions at the right price.
4. Architects can help simplify complex site restrictions.
On Cape Cod, most properties come with multiple restrictions. There a local, state and national codes in place that can sometimes be confusing. We have experience working with local Boards including – Zoning, Planning, Historic, Health get projects approved. We’ve also worked on sites in FEMA flood plain that require specific design. We understand these complex situations and can make usually work with these restrictions.
APCC Net Zero Barn Rendering
5. Architects can show you how your project will look.
There are multiple ways to understand a project. From simple plan and elevation sketches to scaled detailed construction documents, Architects communicate ideas through drawings. We use three dimensional modeling to understand more complicated sites and use multiple tools to help clients understand and balance functional versus aesthetic concerns.
6. Architects understand SCALE and CONTEXT.
How will your project look on its site? How will the project look on the street? Our goal is to make it look like it was always there, like it was meant to be there.
7. architects streamline the design, permit, and construction process.
The design, permitting and construction process and scheduling can be quite complex. We are familiar with all phases of design, regulatory review and the construction process. We have had clients all over the world work with us, from China, London and across the US. While it’s always beneficial to meet in person, it’s not always possible. We are comfortable and confident about working with clients near and far and keeping communication lines open about schedules, deadlines and milestone.