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Building Your Business: Why Would You Need An Architect?

By Scott Michael Perez, AIA, CSI, CCS, NCARB, President, fulcrum STUDIOS, PC, fulcrum-studios.com

You are the owner of a growing business...
Because of this growth, you are ready to build or renovate your office space to create that new look. Many times, building owners are advised to hire a contractor and simply bypass the need for a licensed architect. After all, the contractor is really the one putting your building together, and an architect only creates additional costs to the project, right? Did you realize that hiring an architect can save you both money and time? Let’s walk through the various services an architect may provide (keep in mind that not all architects provide the same services).

• At the start of the project, the architect listens to the client in order to understand the project scope, budget, aesthetic and functional issues.
• The architect then develops a building program and design, presenting a three-dimensional or computer-generated model. Fulcrum STUDIOS provides each of its clients with a basic three-dimensional model, which allows them to actually see a virtual “walk-through” of the building prior to construction…at no additional fee.
• Your architect may help you understand the overall building costs and provide an “opinion of probable cost.” This opinion may include a high and low range of cost, taking into account industry fluctuations.
• The design is refined so that structural, mechanical, electrical, fire protection, and technology systems are integrated.
• Today, many projects are moving towards LEED certification, which indicates by manufacturers utilizing energy-saving building materials, techniques and design.
• The final design is incorporated into construction documents, including drawings, detailed specifications and support documents.
• On larger projects, your architect can help develop a master plan to help envision potential future expansion.
• Your architect should address the essential issue of a code review for the work being performed. Code reviews determine if your project is affected by the many state and/or city code requirements. Compliance reports can help you navigate legal issues.

What credentials must an architect possess in order to perform the services indicated above?
In Indiana, a licensed architect must have a six-year Master of Architecture graduate degree or a five-year Bachelor of Architecture. Architects must also pass a professional license exam and be approved by the State Board of Architects to practice architecture withn the State of Indiana. Ask your prospective architect for their resumé and license number. Several states now have a listing of professionals on their web sites, which will tell you if they are currently registered with the state, and if they are in good standing with the local registration board.

Why do I need a licensed architect? It’s a matter of safety. The National Council of Architecture Registration Boards (NCARB) has set forth stringent requirements to ensure that the design of buildings is sound and that life safety issues are properly addressed. A licensed architect is required by the State of Indiana to create, review, and oversee the Construction Documents and affix their stamp on them, certifying they were prepared under his/her direction. The State of Indiana must review and release these documents before construction can start. Be wary of anyone stating they can have the documents “stamped” for a small fee…this is not only illegal, but can be costly in the long run.

An architect is one of many key elements in the construction process. Many architects are now providing “construction administration” as part of their base fees. This allows the architect to act as the Owner’s representative to help ensure quality and compliance. Whether you are starting the process of building, renovating a facility, or developing a master plan for future expansion, a licensed architect can help you in more ways than you can imagine.