“Should I hire a builder or architect first?”
This is a question that we hear often as people contemplate a new home or renovations/additions to their existing home. It is understandable that confusion exists as nearly every builder and architect will give you a different opinion.
Our intention with this post is not to argue that our opinion on these facts is the only right answer, but simply to describe what we have found to work best. So, before you need to read any further, here is our answer to the question:
TEAMWORK is best
The best results, in architectural design, specification design, and costs, happen by being able to engage with all the key players early on. These key players are of course the architect and the builder – but should also include an interior designer and cabinet designer, along with potentially a landscape architect, audio/video/automation integrator, and others (depending on the size and complexity of the project).
By using a team mentality from the very beginning several favorable results are realized:
- By including the relevant team members, the intentions are communicated from the beginning, helping the team understand the “why” of the design. This can reduce confusion or omissions later in the project.
- A complete team will be able to bring their expertise to the table, providing useful/additional ideas to the project.
- The team can help provide some cost benefit analysis during the design process, helping the homeowner understand the financial ramifications of ideas before extensive design rework may be required.
An overall project balance can be achieved. With a team in place, the design, specifications, and budget are all able to stay in alignment – with the homeowner being able to understand the relevant possibilities for the home.
The TROXEL TRIANGLE
For you, the homeowner, your desire is to get the best design that aligns with your dreams, with the best possible specifications and quality level that meet your expectations, all at what you determine is a fair price. Here at Troxel Custom Homes we call this the “Troxel Triangle!” The idea is that the 3 points of the triangle are the Design (what the size and structural complexity of the home are), the Specifications (what you put into the home), and the Budget (what it costs to build the home). For the Troxel Triangle to be in balance, one of the 3 points needs to stay a variable. So, in practice, if the design of the home is fixed, and the specifications are fixed – then you will need to understand that the cost for the home will be what it is. If that cost is too high for expectation, then either the size/design will need to change or the level of the expectations for the specifications will need to change to get the triangle back in balance. If a team has been involved from the beginning, then the balance of the “Troxel Triangle” can be maintained from the beginning!
We are here to help be your guide through this process. If you are contemplating building a new home or renovating your existing home, get in touch with us to learn more about how we can facilitate the best possible process for you!
