(Q): What does an Architect do?
(A): Architects are trained problem solvers. Design is an important role for the Architect, but it is not the only one. Architects are specially educated to help their clients define project goals based on the Client's needs and desires. In addition, architects present design options to their Clients that satisfy those goals based on the Client's budget.

Architects create total environments, both interior spaces and exterior forms, which meet their Client's functional needs and satisfy their aesthetic desires. Since the ultimate goal of both the client and Architect is a built project, the Architect, through his knowledge of construction techniques, practices, and materials draws and details a set of plans that brings the design to reality.

During the construction phase of the project, Shapes & Forms Architects, Inc. can act as the Client's representative to the Contractor. We would make visits to the jobsite to determine that the project is being built per our plans and specifications and would document any changes that occur. We review all change order requests and monthly draws from the Contractor and report to the Client any irregularities. With our knowledge of construction principles, we are in a better position than most of our Clients to work with Contractors and help our Client understand the construction process better.

(Q): What is involved in the design process?
(A): The design process is an interactive process between the Architect and the Client. The level of participation that the Client desires determines the amount of interaction. Shapes & Forms Architects, Inc. will meet with our Client several times to receive input on the design at various stages of the design process. After these meetings, we incorporate the Client's comments into the design, steadily progressing towards the final design solution.

The important point to keep in mind is that the project is a collaboration between all parties involved: the Client, the Architect, and maybe a builder. The process should be enjoyable to everyone.

(Q): Is good design important? Does it make a difference?
(A): Well-designed spaces can affect the disposition and temperament of people using the space, sometimes in very subtle ways. A large space that is not well-proportioned can make a person feel small, lonely, and even vulnerable. However, that same space may feel comfortable and even lively when used as a gathering space for social occasions.

Well-designed spaces set up a hierarchy so that each space has a rank in the overall scheme. This hierarchy will determine the importance and quality of that space. The more importance placed on a space, the more time, attention and budget will be allotted to that space. As a part of that hierarchy, some spaces should be designed as transition spaces. These spaces are connecting spaces and are not meant as gathering areas. Transition spaces can be important spaces. They can be a simple hallway or they can be a gallery used to display important objects.

Spaces are also designed as public or private spaces. Most of us recognize that a bathroom should be a private space, while the living room is a public space. If these spaces are designed at the wrong scale or visibility, they may not feel private or public.

Design does make a difference in everyone's life. It can be slight or it can jump out at you, and its effects can be both good and bad. Shapes & Forms Architects, Inc. has the experience and pays attention to the details that matter to design a project that will make a difference.

(Q): How much does it cost to design a custom home?
(A): There are many factors in setting the fees for a custom home design. The complexity of the design program, the size of the home, how many levels to the house, the difficulty of the site, local codes and ordinances, and design review guidelines that must be met are all factors used in determining the cost of design. When you contact us, we will be able to give you an idea of our fees.

(Q): Can Shapes & Forms Architects, Inc. work with out-of-town Clients?
(A) YES. With today's technology, it is easier than ever for us to work with out-of-town Clients. We have worked very successfully with Clients who spend most of their time in a different locale. Telephones, email, FAX and the internet allow us to keep our clients informed and involved in the entire design process wherever they happen to be.

(Q): How long does the design and building process take?
(A): The size and complexity of the project determines how long it will take to design and build. Other factors such as local codes and Design Review Boards and the Client's ability to respond in a timely manner also affect the timeline. Most custom homes designed by Shapes & Forms Architects, Inc. usually take between 12-15 months from the time we begin design to the day you move in.