FAQ

First, you should know that it’s actually illegal to use the term “architect” without a license! A licensed architect has the necessary knowledge and qualifications to ensure the project’s compliance with all local building codes and regulations, as well as build quality and experience integrating all the subsystems (engineering, HVAC, electrical, lighting, landscaping, etc.) that go into envisioning and creating a great home.

Expanding your home with an addition will give you more space and functionality and increase its value above the cost. Unfortunately, the process can also be a source of stress. Worse, a badly planned or executed addition could deliver less useful space than you hoped, might cause higher utility, maintenance and repair costs than expected, and at best fail to repay your investment.

While hiring a contractor might seem the simplest and most cost-effective path, engaging an architect offers multiple benefits that can make a substantial, positive difference in your long-term happiness with the change. Here’s why you should consider hiring an architect for your home addition instead of relying solely on a contractor:

Specialized Training and Expertise
Architects undergo specialized training and possess a unique skill set beyond what a contractor typically offers, including a comprehensive understanding of design principles and how to use them, knowledge of a wider range of materials and construction options than typical contractors who know a few familiar choices very well, as well as the relevant building codes. This expertise enables architects to create innovative and functional designs that a contractor may be unable to match.

Creative and Personalized Solutions
The architect’s ability to evaluate a broader set of possibilities helps in designing a home addition that seamlessly integrates with your existing structure while reflecting your unique style. An architect will incorporate your specific needs and desires in his or her designs, ensuring that every aspect of the addition enhances your home’s overall functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Maximizing Space and Light
Architects are skilled at maximizing space and natural light. They can design layouts that optimize available space, making even small additions feel spacious and airy. By thoughtful shaping and placement of windows, skylights, and doors, architects can create the feeling you want (not to speak of evoking appropriate emotions)– while controlling lighting and heating/cooling costs.-Archaeo Architects in particular specializes in employing natural light to define spaces, sometimes even enabling the elimination of physical (read “costly”) walls.

Comprehensive Planning and Coordination
A significant advantage of hiring an architect is his or her ability to oversee the entire project from concept to occupancy. Architects must also be project managers who can coordinate with all stakeholders, including contractors, utility and other specialty subcontractors, engineers, suppliers, and interior designers — as well as with you, the client. They ensure that all project phases proceed in proper order, conform to the initial vision, and are executed to the highest standards. This comprehensive oversight reduces the risk of miscommunication, errors, and delays, common pitfalls in construction projects.

Sustainability and Energy Efficiency
Archaeo Architects are focused on sustainable design and energy efficiency, recognizing the long-term benefits of eco-friendly building practices. We can incorporate green building materials and energy-efficient systems into your home addition, reducing its environmental impact and lowering utility costs in ways that a contractor may not consider. We are also sensitive to the building site, making sure your addition enhances the building’s fit with the landscape.

Aesthetic Cohesion and Property Value
An architect’s design perspective ensures that your home addition harmonizes with the existing structure. Note that this might not mean it must be identical. A creative architect may suggest a design that elevates the overall appeal of your home, whereas a poorly designed addition can detract from your home’s overall appeal and may even hurt its market value. By hiring an architect, you can avoid these pitfalls and achieve a seamless integration that enhances your home’s beauty and functionality.

Long-Term Cost Savings
While hiring an architect requires an initial investment, it can avoid some costs and lead to long-term cost savings. Architects’ meticulous planning and attention to detail help prevent costly mistakes and rework during construction. Their expertise in optimizing space and materials can also lead to more efficient and cost-effective designs. In contrast, contractors who lack an architectural design background may overlook these nuances, resulting in higher expenses and potential budget overruns.

Conclusion
Hiring an architect for your home addition provides numerous benefits that exceed the capabilities of a typical contractor. From expert design and project management, complying with local regulations and codes, to sustainable practices and more , architects bring a holistic approach that ensures your home addition is not only functional and beautiful but also a valuable investment. Work with us to maximize your living space, home value and your enjoyment of your home.

As soon as possible. We can help you understand building costs so you can set an appropriate budget, evaluate building sites for potential feasibility and begin planning the coordination of all the services you’ll need.

There are the obvious ones: current license, examples of work (look at our projects and note which ones inspire you), recommendations and references, complaint record (if any) on Better Business Bureau — and how the architect responded to any complaints. Archaeo Architects have never received a formal complaint.

Then come the foundations of the personal relationship we will develop, over the months that the process will take. As you talk and meet with your candidates, note how well s/he listens, responds, explains. (A really good test is to wait until after you’ve left the meeting and check how well you can explain what you learned to someone else.) How open are they to your ideas? Will they challenge you – the right amount?
The American Institute of Architects has compiled a list of questions to ask your prospective architect that cover more topics.

While some architects break the process into as many as a dozen distinct phases, we focus on working with you throughout what can and should be a fluid process.
The first stage is our mutual getting-to-know-you set of meetings. From what we learn about you and your needs and wants, we can begin with design sketches. Then you and we work together to narrow down to a single vision.
Eventually, we can start specifying materials and other details before turning what is still a design guide into formal documents (blueprints) that can be budgeted accurately, submitted for permitting and finally guide the builder.
A key part of our job is to manage the entire process all the way through to move-in (and even beyond). And of course, we will keep you informed and as involved as you want to be throughout.

For a more detailed explanation, please review our “Process” document.

You know the first answer is “it depends.” The four primary issues are scope, quality, schedule and budget. The main costs are of course the land, the choice of materials and the construction of the home itself. Our fees typically end up around 10% of the cost of construction, although we can also charge fixed fees by phase or specific task if you don’t need us for the entire project. Costs of building a home vary by locale and of course, size, materials and level of luxury. In the past several years we have seen a significant rise in the cost of custom residential construction. In Santa Fe, New Mexico, as of August 2023, you can expect costs for quality homes to start around $700/sq. ft. We have tracked the costs of construction for all of the homes we have designed over the last decade and, with inflation factored in, the average cost has been $779 per conditioned square feet. Unconditioned spaces, such the garage, mechanical room, storage, exterior covered space are included in that number. Some of the homes had certain complexities that increased cost, such as a site that was particularly steep, or had poor soils. Some clients had extreme sensitivities to materials and finishes. Some clients required a very high level of quality.

Our architects are based in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and most of our projects are in the Southwest. However, we also can handle projects in other locations. We have designed homes as far afield as Baja Mexico and South Dakota. Reach out to us to discuss your specific location and project needs.

You can expect the design and construction document process to take from 6 to 9 months. The construction process usually runs 12 to 16 months.

Just give us a call or email.