But most architectural firms are into "custom" designs, meaning they are looking at
very high end designs and details.
What I need is a company that can produce a solid design and leave the fancy stuff out.
Of course, I do not want to spend a huge bundle of money either.
Stock plans do not work for us.
How do I go about finding a decent, solid architect in Houston TX?
Thanks,
A. K.
While architectural fees may seem expensive, creating an entirely new set of custom home plans requires a considerable amount of time and expertise. Architects are highly regulated professionals. Seven to ten years of graduate school and field experience can be required to qualify for the license examinations. Once licensed, architects are held to strict ethical standards and must maintain a high degree of technical competence.
If cost of design is your primary concern, and you already have a design in mind, you may not need an architect. My sources indicate that a licensed architect is not required for a house in Texas. I would consider hiring a 'residential designer' instead. Designers are generally unregulated, but some are extremely qualified. You can find out more about designers from the American Institute of Building Design website, www.aibd.org.
Stock house plans are the least expensive way to purchase professionally prepared plans, but it can be frustrating to find exactly the plans you need. Many but not all stock plan designers will customize their plans although the cost of modifications can drive up the cost of the plans significantly.
Stock house plans are the least expensive way to purchase professionally prepared plans, but it can be frustrating to find exactly the plans you need. Many but not all stock plan designers will customize their plans although the cost of modifications can drive up the cost of the plans significantly.
That's why I started www.originalhome.com, an interactive home plan website where you can customize the designs on-line. Right now, our site has a great selection of Colonial and Cape designs, but we're working to add new series of plans. Even if we don't have the design you're looking for, our site may give you some useful ideas.
Good luck with your project,
David Moore, AIA
Original Home Plans
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PS. You can find additional reading on the subject at Architect Fees.