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The top 6 reasons to not use an architect

November 30, 2015 16 Comments

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I often hear lots of understandable reasons why people don’t use architects – often generated by very bad experiences their friends or family have had.

It is never my intention to push you to use an architect. Only you can decide who the best person is (if it’s anyone at all) to help you with the design of your home build or renovation. My mission is always to inform you, so you can feel confident and empowered in every choice you make as you create or transform your home.

So here are the top reasons I know of, and some info on what to consider if this is the reason you’re not using an architect.

Undercover Architect

1. They’re too expensive

Architects generally charge 10-to-15% of the construction cost of a project, based on how complex or large it is. Generally, the higher the construction cost, the lower the percentage. Their fees will also be linked to the construction cost – so if your building budget goes up, so do their fees.

It may seem too costly to hand over that much of your budget to an architect, because you’ll have to go without in other areas of your build or reno. However, that 10-to-15% is what it will cost to have an architect partner you for the entire project – right through to completion. Perhaps you don’t need that level of assistance from an architect? Perhaps you want help with your design only, and can then find less expensive assistance or manage the rest yourself? You don’t have to use an architect the whole way through, and can still get a far-improved outcome overall for their input at the right time (especially in the design).

If you’re planning a small project, getting started with the right strategy and design ideas can save you a fortune in the long-term. Most architects will charge $150-to-400/hour for a consultation. There’s very few projects I know of that wouldn’t benefit from an hour of expert assistance at the beginning, and even part way through the project.

Don’t forget that using a professional to guide and assist you can actually save you cash. In better strategies design-wise, eliminating mistakes, accessing discounted items and exposure to far more of the industry than you can access alone. Find a professional who has demonstrated experience in adding value in this way.

2. They will design me something that’s over my budget

This one is unfortunately supported by the experiences of many homeowners and it’s not just limited to working with architects.

So often, I see projects commence where the homeowner has outlined a firm budget, and then followed a design process with their chosen professional. They get to the end, they’re in love with the result, and they get it costed by a builder. And it’s 1.5 times, or double, or triple their budget. Totally frustrated, they throw in the towel, or start again, or massively scale back their plans. And everything feels like a compromise from that point.

As I said, this experience isn’t limited to working architects, and even if you don’t use an architect, it won’t make you immune to it for your project.

How do you keep your project on budget?

  • Research your chosen professional well, so you find someone who has a track record for working to budgets
  • Be clear about what it is, and don’t play tricks with your designer to ‘keep them honest’. It’s not conducive to building a trusting partnership overall.
  • Keep a contingency for potential overruns on site
  • Listen to your chosen professional every time they say “that will cost more money” or “that’s not in budget”
  • Get your project costed early in the design process (as in, don’t wait until you have all your approvals to get a quote on its cost to build) so you can amend on the way

Undercover Architect 1

 3. They won’t listen/will only design what they want

There are some incredibly egotistical and arrogant architects out there, who won’t listen to you. There’s builders, and building designers and draftspeople who are like this too.

And there are architects, and other professionals who are awesome at interpreting a client’s brief and designing an outcome for them that is not what they asked for, but totally exceeds their expectations for their home.

What’s key is that you find the right professional for you and that you then:

  • create a brief that shows what you’re seeking to achieve, and is clear about needs, wants, budget and timing
  • trust that your professional can use their expertise to expand your vision
  • have honest conversations about when you feel you’re being railroaded or not listened to

4. I or my uncle/friend/brother/builder has an interest in design

Australia is very unusual globally in that you don’t need an architect to design or draw up your home. In most places in Australia, you can design it, and get it drawn up however you choose. No one will stop you.

However, if you were investing $50,000 (or more) in the stock market, would you rely solely on the experience of a non-qualified, untrained friend or family member? I think if they had demonstrated and repeated performance in investment, then perhaps you might.

Could the same be said if you were investing $200,000? Or $500,000?

Think about what you’re about to spend on your reno or build as an investment in the home you’re about to create – and the quality of life it will help you lead. What type of advice (and from whom) will help you be confident you’re making the best decisions for that investment?

Undercover Architect 2

5. An architect will just want to use me, and my project, to win awards

The challenge we have is that architects continue to be judged purely on the homes they produce. If you’re looking for an architect – or any other designer for that fact – you’ll look through photos of the homes they’ve helped create.

Winning awards is something many architects, and other professionals, seek to do because it helps them build their profile, and their reputation … which in turn helps them get clients. It gets their work ‘out there’.

Let’s look at the stats though …

There are over 11,000 registered architects in Australia (and to legally call yourself an architect, you have to be registered with the Board of Architects).

The main industry awards for architecture are run by the Australian Institute of Architects. Only a small handful of homes receive awards each year, with each state probably only entering 40 or 50 homes at most.

Architect designed homes count for 3% of the 150,000 + homes built every year. That’s 4,500 new homes. We’re not talking renovations here either.

So there’s a lot of architects, and a lot of homes, that are not winning awards … and still creating great homes. And some that will be creating so-so homes too.

If you choose an architect, or professional, because of their awards, and don’t check with their previous clients to see how the experience was for them, you may not be doing your homework thoroughly.

Test and check any professional you’re thinking of working with to make sure they’re a good fit for you and your project – and that they’re on the same page as you for what you’re seeking to achieve.

6. I don’t want anything complicated

Think of some of the best designed objects you know. The iPod, the post-it note, the safety-pin. Each would have started with a fairly uncomplicated requirement or desire. Portable music that fits in your pocket. A bookmark or note that doesn’t stick permanently to things. A pin that doesn’t pin you.

But the design of them, the work that’s gone into creating them to be as great as they are – that’s great design. They’re simple. Useful. Functional. Fit-for-purpose. Beautiful. Make your life better. Easier. More convenient.

Even though what you want may not be complicated, I’d venture to say you want it to make your life better. To make the most of your budget and maximise every opportunity to improve your home and your life.

Getting the design right makes this happen. So, regardless of how uncomplicated you think your needs may be, getting a design expert to help you get it right will mean that what you create doesn’t complicate your life overall.

So who will you choose?

There are lots of different professionals that can help you with your project – be it a new home, a significant renovation, a smaller project, or some internal rejigging and fitout.

Sometime an architect is not the best choice for your project. I have often said to clients, “You don’t need me, use a (insert other professional here). They’re a better choice for your needs.” Being informed about what each professional can offer is the best way to make an educated decision for your home.

If it seems unaffordable to get your preferred designer for your project the whole way through – see if you can pay for an hour or two of their time to get their expertise injected into your project. This will improve it overall, especially if done at the start.

Finally find a professional you can trust, has the right type of expertise for your project, and who has demonstrated experience in getting great results. Weigh up your investment with the level of advice you know will help you be confident and clear you’re getting it right.

–Amelia Lee is the architect behind Undercover Architect, an online resource to guide you in creating the perfect home for you. Undercover Architect provides the information, tools, products and services to demystify your journey and guide your way.

 

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. AvatarAmelia Lee says

    November 30, 2015 at 9:28 pm

    Thank you for sharing this advice with your community Reno Addict! I hope your readers find the information useful in choosing any design professional for their home renovation … whether they’re an architect or not – Amelia, UA x

    Reply
  2. AvatarErin says

    December 1, 2015 at 10:52 pm

    We’re owner building for the 2nd time. The first time we used an architect, this time a retired draughtsman. 1st time round our builder complained continually that the architects plans were not accurate and he had this rep with all the builders in town. He was also extremely expensive.
    2nd time we hired a draughstsman and didn’t go with a builder for framing, we ordered frames this time, and are very happy with his plans. Admittedly we had plenty of ideas and input to the plans, so we didn’t need him to conceptualize, we could do that.
    Just to say different choices different experiences.

    Reply
    • AvatarAmelia Lee says

      December 4, 2015 at 10:01 am

      Hi Erin

      Thank you for your comment.

      Congrats to you taking on the owner-builder journey – not once, but twice! It’s a big undertaking, and getting the right support and guidance can be crucial in helping you make the right choices, and feel confident in the process.

      I’m glad you were able to find the solution that suited you.

      Warm Regards
      Amelia, UA

      Reply
  3. AvatarKim says

    December 4, 2015 at 7:58 am

    I think this is a very short sighted article and the title is very negative towards the Architectural community. Having an Architect help out for one or two hours??? That is not going to make a difference, and not enough time to realise the potential of a site. Perhaps you need to sit in an office and watch the whole process and see how much time goes into designing and documenting.

    Reply
    • AvatarMelissa Lunardon says

      December 4, 2015 at 9:28 am

      I agree with you 100%. I was very shocked to see the article.
      People underestimate the amount of work and skill that a designer/architect can input into a project.

      Reply
      • AvatarAmelia Lee says

        December 6, 2015 at 12:45 pm

        Hi Melissa,

        I hope you had the opportunity to read my response to Kim’s comment – your and my comments may have passed each other in the interwebs.

        It is not my intention to underestimate the work and skill that goes into creating great design. In fact, the post illustrates this through other everyday objects we love using. It often can and does take a huge amount of work and skill to achieve the ultimate in simplicity and beauty.

        And being an architect, I know personally and professionally the work and skill that goes into creating projects.

        However, the predominant way we create houses in Australia does not prioritise design. A simple demonstration of this (aesthetics aside) is how many homes ignore their orientation in their design.

        Telling homeowners how much work and skill it is to achieve great design will not, in my opinion, convince them to get paid help from a designer. Or value that help more because they underestimate what’s involve.

        Instead, perhaps helping them understand the difference design will make to their life may cause them to value it, seek it out, and look for help. At that point, I’d like them to understand that a) everyone can have great design and b) the reasons you think you don’t want a designer / architect to help you may not be as valid as you think.

        Thank you for your comment,
        Warm Regards
        Amelia, UA

        Reply
        • AvatarLiz Jenson says

          July 12, 2018 at 8:17 am

          The article’s title and structure in highlighting all the inaccurate myths is possibly the worst choice you could’ve ever made if you wanted to illustrate your points above. Perhaps a more positive one would’ve been a better choice and one that doesn’t undermine your own profession and it’s many benefits.

          Reply
    • AvatarAmelia Lee says

      December 4, 2015 at 9:58 am

      Hi Kim,

      Thank you for your comment, and for reading this post.

      As a registered architect, with over 20 years industry experience, having worked in, and owned, award-winning architectural practices, I am very familiar with the amount of effort, time, skill and resources that goes into designing, documenting and delivering any project well.

      The truth is, though, that only 3% of the 150,000 plus homes built each year in Australia, are designed in a traditional client-architect arrangement.

      These are the 6 top reasons I hear homeowners regularly citing for not using an architect – hence the title used. However, the post is clear in illustrating that these reasons are not specific to architects.

      I also know from experience that I can spend one to two hours with a homeowner (especially one who had dismissed getting any design help, particularly from an architect) and it radically improve the overall outcomes for their home, and make a big difference.

      It can be as simple as helping them understand how significantly orientation can impact their living experience, or the strategies they can use to renovate or build in a way that saves them time and money (and get a better result).

      I am passionate about design, and the difference it can make to our homes, and lives.

      My mission is to help ALL homeowners understand this, and to equip them with tools, advice and information they need to make their home (and life) better – whoever they’re working with.

      – Amelia, UA

      Reply
  4. AvatarAlix says

    December 10, 2015 at 9:26 am

    Hi Amelia
    I’m an architect by training but got out before I got registered and am now married to a residential builder – we have many, many discussions about architects and residential design. I think the profession has so much to offer in terms of design but their (massive generalisation) track record on designing to a budget is so woeful that it really puts people off. I know that when I was at uni 20+ years we literally never discussed how much things cost. Which is insane when you think about it. Lots of common sense info and advice here – thankyou!

    Reply
    • AvatarAmelia Lee says

      December 13, 2015 at 7:17 pm

      Hi Alix
      Thank you for your comment.
      My university education was similar – cost was never mentioned! It’s strange to consider given how critical it is to helping people deliver their projects. Mind you, there were many things like that when I started working after uni!
      I can imagine you would have some interesting conversations with your hubby about architects and residential design.
      I appreciate your kind feedback on the blog, and here’s to helping homeowners be proactive in working out who is best to help them with their project, and how to stay on budget!
      Warm Regards
      Amelia, UA x

      Reply
  5. AvatarRobert Harwood says

    July 12, 2018 at 9:32 am

    Amelia, I get all the reasons you give, but the title totally undermines your reasons and feeds the unfortunate, very bizarre and singular idea in Australia that you shouldn’t have to use an architect.

    Your logic is like if someone has goes to Court that they would have to prove their innocence, rather than the Court having to prove their guilt.

    Reply
  6. AvatarRyan Avellanosa says

    May 9, 2020 at 9:32 am

    “One of the REASONS why
    some GOODS and SERVICES
    are EXPENSIVE is because
    it SHOULDN’T BE PUT FOR SALE.”

    Reply
  7. AvatarCDH says

    May 31, 2020 at 12:08 am

    This is clickbait. It is misleading and biased. The fact of the matter is Architecture is one of the last remaining monopolies. A concerted organizational effort to provide a service and maintain ownership and copyright of the product being sold.

    Reply
  8. Avatarsar says

    September 22, 2020 at 9:59 pm

    If the architect wants to charge you 10% of the construction budget then you should insist their fee includes a cost plan updated at all stages of the project, so when you go to tender you have something to compare the proposed construction costs against to see if the builder isnt just trying to rip you off (not that any builder ever over charged a client, ever).

    Reply
  9. AvatarKathy says

    October 13, 2020 at 11:07 pm

    This article is very odd. Consider inserting the word ‘doctor’ or ‘lawyer’ into the title and you’ll see what I mean:
    The top 6 reasons to not use a doctor.
    The top 6 reasons to not use a lawyer.

    Huh? The title becomes ridiculous now because you’re saying to yourself, ‘why would someone disrespect their health or their legal issue enough to not seek professional advice? They’re just asking for trouble! ‘

    The fact is, if you want a quality outcome, you wouldn’t hesitate to appoint a doctor for a health issue, or a lawyer for a legal issue, because they are professionals.

    Sure, there are mediocre doctors and lawyers out there, but anyone who values their health or wants a positive legal outcome wouldn’t appoint someone who isn’t a doctor or lawyer, or is passing themselves off as one, or is telling you you don’t need one.

    The same goes with your property. If you care about your property and you’re investing a significant amount of money in it, give it the respect it deserves. Use a professional. The most qualified people in the building industry are architects.

    Do your research. Avoid the fakers and the long-winded givers of endless ‘advice’ that do nothing but muddy the waters. Find a real, registered, working architect that you like, with a registration number you can check at the architects registration website in your State. Then listen to their professional advice.

    And don’t listen to nonsensical rubbish articles like this one.

    Reply
  10. AvatarBob says

    February 2, 2021 at 9:32 pm

    As an architect, I am completely affronted by this article. Many people do not realize how much time goes into even just a 5,000 sq. ft. custom home. Dealing with the city restrictions, codes, planning, zoning, HOA at times, coordinating all other consultants such as MEP, structural, title- 24. A typical custom home that I will produce for my much appreciated clients can take up to 350-400 hours of time from start of programing, to final approval form the city building department. Sadly I see many clients in this field that want the Taj Mahal for a home depot one stop low budget price, and of course they have no budget or any money for that matter. Needles to say, I reject those projects, the clients end up becoming disgruntled and frankly obnoxious.

    Reply

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