Do I Need an Architect for My Home Remodel in Portland?
Do you picture architects wearing perfectly tailored suits, holding giant blueprints, and talking about “spatial flow”? That can feel a little intimidating (and maybe even an unnecessary luxury) if you just want a bigger kitchen. When does it make sense to bring in an architect for a remodel? It is related to the size of project, the level of finishes, or the type of house you have? Yes, and more. We help make your remodel less stressful, more functional, and fit seamlessly into your home.
When You Should Give Your Local Portland Architect A Call
You want to build an ADU
An accessory dwelling unit (ADU) can be either attached (think attic or basement apartment) or detached (think converted garage). They are common in Portland as the City has adjusted some zoning laws to make them work on more property types, but that doesn’t mean they’re easy to navigate. We’re knowledgeable and experienced in navigating either type of ADU projects in many jurisdictions, but particularly here in Portland.
You are remodeling an historic or older Portland home
Many of Portland’s neighborhoods took shape more than a century ago, and it’s likely that you live in a house older than you. In Historic neighborhoods like Laurelhurst and Irvington, some of those century-old houses are specific enough to the character of those places as to be listed on the Historic Resource Inventory. A remodel to these listed homes, or in these historic neighborhoods, requires a special design review process, something we’ve navigated often. Even if your home isn’t on the registry, you likely want to maintain the style and character that made it so special to begin with. We will help preserve a home’s character while modernizing functionality for your lifestyle.
You’re planning an addition, a second-story expansion, or a basement dig-out
There are many City requirements and building code regulations that adding space to your home will need to meet, from stair details, to window and egress requirements. It’s also likely a Structural Engineer will need to produce calculations and drawings for how the addition is built and connected to the existing structure. Yet, for architects, these are just things we incorporate as we work to blend the new space seamlessly with old. We help you navigate all of it and make sure it looks great inside and out.
You want a cohesive, functional, and beautiful design
This sounds obvious; who wouldn’t! Picking out a new bath tile, or finding a favorite new faucet is one thing, but ensuring it is harmonious with your existing home is what an architect does. We make sure everything flows naturally, so your house feels like one home, not a patchwork quilt. We’ll go through every little detail, down to the finish and pattern of your shower drain, so you can be confident the work will feel like it’s always been a part of the house.
Your project requires permits or zoning approvals
When a permit is required and not, who applies for it, and what is necessary to complete the process, is a complicated process within every jurisdiction. In Portland, there are additional measures (think trees) and methods (contractor over-the-counter or FIRS) to know. It’s safe to assume that a permit will be required for your project and bring in the right people to help you. We know what to look out for, what paperwork is required, and always do extensive zoning research and help you hire any consultants (arborists, surveyors, stormwater/geotech engineers) that might be needed for your project. We have Title 33 Zoning Code bookmarked as a favorite, because you just don’t need to stress yourself navigating all this information.
When You Probably Don’t Need an Architect
You might have a project that isn’t outlined above and wouldn’t require the expertise an architect brings. We want to help you in the best way possible, and sometimes that is to tell you that you don’t need our services. Although we can help you select interior finishes, we aren’t required in situations like these:
Updating cabinets and countertops in your kitchen – we can point you to resources
Switching out old plumbing fixtures (turns out the pink toilet didn’t come back into trend after all) – we can point you to resources
Replacing the flooring without moving walls – we can point you to resources
If your project is like these examples, and your focused on deciding between eggshell or satin finish, not structural engineering, then you can probably skip the architect and go straight to the contractor. We will gladly talk to you and help you decide if that’s the smartest choice for your project and can give you resources!
What a Residential Architect Actually Does
We solve problems you didn’t know existed
This often shows up in finding solutions you didn’t know were available. An architect is trained in space planning and can find a configuration to unlock a puzzle, often without “adding” space. We have our design tips and tricks that can make any space feel exciting and feel great.
We coordinate with contractors, engineers, and consultants
An architect is bi-lingual, speaking “structural,” “mechanical,” and “contractor,” and “client/homeowner.” We are versed in all aspects of a project and help communicate between the team, avoiding conflict and creating a dynamic group to get the best result for your home.
We plan for the long term
We don’t just make your remodel look good today; we make sure it still works in five, ten, or twenty years. Smart design, sensible materials, and quality craftsmanship are vital for the project to stand the test of time.
We maximize value
A well-designed remodel can increase your home’s value and enjoyment, sometimes without adding extra square footage. When you hire an architect, you often get a return on your investment because of the added value. Hourly Custom homes designed by architects are often worth 10-15% more than spec houses.
Final Thoughts
You don’t hire a residential architect just to make things look nice. You hire us to think about your space in ways you have not, to navigate permits, and to make sure your home is ready for your future. Call Seed + Smith and we’ll help you on your next project!