Gutting an existing house and redesigning it

[Jaz]

We've bought a 40 year old house on a beautiful river lot and we want to basically redesign the whole inside and build outward to have a grand foyer and nanny's room over the garage. We plan to sink about $350,000 into this project but have no idea where to start. Do we hire an architect first or designer or both? Also how do you find a reputable either? Do you interview people or have them come look at the place? What is the range of costs for either?

[RickPalmerandAssociates]

Jaz,

You should definitely retain a design professional for the implementation of your plan. A Certified Building Designer, or Architect can assist you in the process. You should plan for a minimum design/planning fee of 4-5% or work with the design professional on an agreed upon hourly fee. You should have a contract stipulating all terms, conditions, payment schedules, production schedules of drawings as well. This may be a contract composed by the Designer/Architect or a standard form. As a Professional member of The American Institute of Building Design, I would recommend that you go to their website:www.aibd.org and look for Certified Professional Building Designers (CPBD) in your area and contact them to discuss the project. I hope this helps.

Rick Palmer and Associates
P.O. Box 694
Banner Elk, North Carolina 28604

Phone/Fax: 1-828-898-4765