The Drawing Board Studio

I am going to build a house where do I start? What options do I have available? If you are asking yourself these questions, or feel you will be asking these questions in the near future, you have come to the right place.
You need answers before you spend any money on something you may regret. First of all you may need to know the difference between an architect and a draftsman. The most common difference with the most distinction is PRICE. An architect will be well versed in products and material integrity. In most cases the architect will oversee the project to ensure the home is built precisely as planned. A great service but is not free. A draftsman will prepare construction documents as outlined by a plan designer. The plan designer may be the owner, the general contractor, an architect, or even the draftsman.
Don’t be fooled by the cost of “Blueprints” and the cost of “Architectural Services” or “Designing Services”. If you have seen the Home Plans books that have hundreds of plans to choose from and notice the cost of those plans compared to the cost you may have been quoted from an architect or plan designer. The cost is significantly different. The reason being the designer of those pre-drawn plans has already made his money on designing that plan. Why not re-sell the plan to make a few more bucks.
You need to determine which choice best fits your interests.

1. If you can find a pre-drawn plan that you love and could see yourself moving into then that is your best bet. It will be the cheapest and fastest route during the planning stages. DO NOT purchase a plan if you think you can just change a few things and be happy.

2. If you have a basic idea or concept and would like to be involved in the designing, or have a floor layout that needs a few changes, or have no idea and would like something to match your lifestyle then a plan designer may be your best bet.

3. If you would like the person involved in the design to oversee all aspects of construction and design, from interior furnishings to exterior finishes, negotiating contacts with General Contractors and even Sub Contractors, and possibly providing an overall theme to your house (inside and out) than an architect may be your best bet.
The most important thing to know is that you are the person who will live in the house. Ultimately you need to be comfortable relaxing in your recliner enjoying the view from your perfectly placed window. You need to have the proper space available when entertaining family and friends. You will enjoy the cozy window seat as you catch up with your favorite book. And unfortunately you may need to be real comfortable with the payment. The choice is yours. Here is a quick list of things you may want to consider before consulting with an Architect, Engineer, Designer, Draftsman, Planner, or Builder.
• What does my State/County/City require of me before I can break ground on my project?
• Where am I going to build my house?
• How much house can I afford?
• Spending more time during the planning stage can save more time and possibly money in the long run.