Architect or Builder? Who should you speak to first?

“Save time, money and heartache by engaging your architect and builder at the same time. “

Which came first: the chicken or the egg? This age old dilemma can be applied to any project that involves multiple elements that need to happen at the same time, including the building process.

So when planning to build your custom home, who should you speak to first - an architect/designer or a builder?

Both roles are vastly different, yet totally complementary. Speaking with a builder and an architect at the beginning of your building project can help ensure you’re making the best time and monetary investment.

WHAT IS AN ARCHITECT?

The architect’s or building designer’s role in the building process is to take everyone’s ideas and turn them into a producible design and set of drawings. Their ability to consolidate your dreams and visions into a visual plan is amazing.

WHAT IS A BUILDER?

Your builder is your project manager. Their role is to transform the architects designs and drawings into the real thing, all the while managing budgets, permits, compliance, finishes and so much more. Their ability to turn drawings into completed homes is amazing.

WHO SHOULD YOU SPEAK WITH FIRST?

As a logical sequence, it seems that the first thing you should do is work with your architect first and then engage your builder. After all, you need the designs complete before your builder can begin construction.

However, we’ve witnessed this approach cause heartache and cost thousands of dollars on multiple occasions.

In the same way that most builder don’t have the experience in producing amazing designs and drawings, many architects and building designers don’t have the experience in cost estimating and building to ensure that the design they present you will be achievable within your budget and deadline.

This often leads to “down spec’ing” components of your dream home after construction has started. All of the sudden your dream home is slowly turning into your “almost dream home”.

OUR RECOMMENDATION

To ensure your project is accurately designed and quoted during its early stages, we highly recommend speaking with your builder at the same time as your architect. This way they can both work together to build a relationship and give you the best possible design achievable within your budget and timeline.

At qldBUILT we prefer to work with our clients from concept to completion, meaning we’re there to help during the design phase to ensure your project is achievable both physically, logistically and within budget.

Our mission is to build stunning homes that everyone wants to ask about, and provide a building experience that our clients can’t wait to brag about.

To discuss your next building or custom home project, contact qldBUILT Managing Director Dominic today on 0410 332 167.