It’s OK. We don’t expect you to know this stuff.
Do I need an architect?
Certain smaller projects, such as bathroom remodels, do not require an architect and may be best handled with an interior designer or direct coordination with a contractor. Projects that involve large renovations, additions, and new construction typically require an architect. We’ll be glad to determine your specific needs.
What are typical architectural fees?
Fees range depending on the scope, scale, and consultants needed to complete a project. We do this by multiplying our hourly rates by the estimated time needed to complete the work. We’ll present this to you as a fixed fee, divided between our four project phases: Conceptual Design; Permit Documents; Construction Documents; and Construction Administration. We bill as we go to protect our client’s investment in the process. As a very rough rule of thumb, Analogue’s fees typically range from 8%-13% of the actual construction budget. Depending upon the job, Structural, Civil, and Mechanical engineering may be required. This is additional to our scope, but we’re adept at coordinating the process for clients.
I just need the basics. Can you give me the bare minimum?
Unfortunately, no. We find a comprehensive set of fully designed documents is the best way to serve clients. Minimal or incomplete design work tends to backfire during the construction process, causing delays and adding unanticipated expenses. We understand there is a wide range of design services to consider, and our comprehensive process is not the perfect fit for every scenario.
What are construction costs?
Detailed explanations of construction costs are best left to the building experts and vary greatly depending on project criteria. Typical residential construction costs for new custom homes (not including site work) begin at $300/sf in the Baltimore metropolitan area. Renovation and addition work is extremely site-specific and must be evaluated on an individual basis. Be wary of information on the internet (we're aware of the irony in making this statement online). We find it’s not commensurate with the data we’ve seen from first-hand experience.
What’s your style? Does it match mine?
Our work is simple and rational. We tend to omit the word “style” from our discussions and focus on problem-solving. Each job is unique and requires solutions that are site and project-specific to solve the challenges. Therefore, we focus on solving problems and let the design work evolve naturally from our process. The result isn’t any one person’s design mission, but a solution that works best for the owner and the specific project.
I have drawings, can you stamp them?
No. Architects are bound both ethically and legally to only sign and seal their own work. Everything must be drawn by our team. If someone tells you otherwise, don’t do it.