The answer to this question is not black or white. There are several factors that must be discussed before answering that question. If your remodel is small, new counters in a kitchen, a new shower in the guest bathroom, and other similar projects, the answer would be no. If your project is expanding your home, a second story, a large remodel of a kitchen or bathroom, removing or modifying structural walls, the answer would be yes. Projects between the two examples above, the answer would be maybe.
Your intentions must be considered as well. If you want a set of drawings and specifications that can be passed out to several contractors obtaining apples to apples bids, then an architect would be helpful. If your project includes a kitchen or bathroom, you may want to consider a certified kitchen (CKD) or certified bath designer (CBD) to help detail the project. An architect traditionally will stop their level of detail at a general layout of the spaces. If your desire is to obtain like for like bids from multiple contractors, you want a level of detail most architects will not provide, including detailed finish schedules, specific cabinet details and legends.
Drawings can be drafted by a licensed architect, licensed general contractor, or a building designer. All three offer different levels of competency and detail. If your project is something beyond just decorating, permits are likely required from your local building department. It would be best to verify with your local jurisdiction who they will accept drawings from before hiring someone. For example, if you are expanding your home, including structural work, an architect can provide those services, including the required structural engineering. A building designer or general contractor would need to hire a structural engineer to provide calculations and stamp the plans. All three could do the specifications required for working drawings, such as windows, doors, trim, roofing, exterior, and interior finishes. Some licensed contractors provide Design-Build services as well, providing similar levels of details and may include the services offered by a CKD or CBD. A Design-Build contractor can relieve some of the complications of multiple companies by completing the interview, developing a set of drawings and specifications, and then completing the construction for your project. If one person completes both phases of your project, there is less chance of mistakes made as a result of misinterpretations or confusion between what you wanted and what the architect drafted.
If your project includes a kitchen or bathroom where fixtures, counters, cabinets, specific electrical, etc. are required, then you may want to hire a specialty designer to help in the selection of those materials and submit a set of detailed drawings that your contractor can follow. Detailing cabinets and appliances is critical in getting utilities in the correct location and creating a well thought-out design that meets your needs. Selecting specific materials and surfaces prior to giving your final approval and signing contracts is a critical step in establishing trust and expectations that will last the entire project and beyond. Don’t sell this step short.
There are many other elements that must be detailed prior to starting your project, executed properly, your project will progress smoothly, looking the way you envisioned it. Home renovating is like buying a car that you cannot see, touch, or drive until it’s built and delivered. Developing a complete and detailed set of drawings prior to starting construction will give you the best possible road to completing a project that looks and functions just as you had always dreamed.
Baccaro Construction is a premier “Design and Build” contractor with NKBA certified kitchen and bath designers, working with our clients from the initial “Wish List” to setting the final finishing nail. If you are ready for your first free consultation, call us.
If you have any specific questions or suggestions for future posts, please contact me at Peter@baccaroconstruction.com.