Frequently Asked Questions
What does an Architect do?
An Architect takes your vision and helps you figure out how to turn a project into a cohesive end product, be it a simple renovation, a brand new home, or a commercial space. We help you achieve what you want, provide suggestions on how to stay within your budget, and educate you about products and materials that make sense for your project.
What services do architects provide?
Architects see the big picture when it comes to your project. They help you explore what appeals to you aesthetically and what you require functionally. They coordinate teams of design, engineering and construction professionals; they sort through the maze of building codes and zoning requirements; they ensure your project is built the way it was intended.
Why should I hire an AIA architect?
Members of the American Institute of Architects adhere to the AIA Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct, assuring you of their dedication to the high standards of professional practice. AIA architects also fulfill annual continuing education requirements to maintain their professional standing and to stay current in the profession.
At what point in my project should I involve an architect?
As soon as you decide you want to build something new, you should start looking for an architect. Architects provide important pre-design services including site evaluation, and can help you explore options you may not have considered. Involving an architect early in the process can help avoid costly missteps, and increase the likelihood of your satisfaction with the project.
How do I find the right architect for my project?
It is critical to find an architect who makes you feel comfortable, and with whom you have open communication. It’s also important to find an architect with experience in your project type. I’d love to see if I can help with your project. Here is some info about Jacob Flitton.
Do I need an architect for my project?
No one can tell you definitively whether you require the services of an architect, but we encourage you to explore the option of using an architect, and to see how they affect their clients’ satisfaction with the final building project.
If you haven’t worked with an architect before, you may wonder whether your project really requires it. Particularly if your project is your personal residence, it may not seem necessary. However, as we have mentioned above, more often than not, having an architect on board for your project, allows you to have someone who is dedicated solely to the creating the best possible outcome for you and your project.
Don’t architects add substantial cost to a project?
While it’s true that architect’s fees are an additional project cost, hiring an architect can actually save you money in many ways. Architects can monitor your budget and negotiate to get the best materials and workmanship at a good price. An architect’s design can reduce energy and maintenance costs. They can turn a difficult lot into a successful building site. They also spend time planning and fully developing your ideas to avoid changes once construction is underway.
What does it cost for Haven Architecture to design and create drawings to build my home or building?
It depends. Once we meet and see if the project is a good fit for everyone involved, we will put together a proposal that reflects what you would like to do. This proposal is typically broken down by phases, outlining each step and bringing light to an otherwise hard to define process. We put a lot of thought into our proposals. Fill out the form for more info specific to your situation.
What do you charge an hour?
It can vary depending on the size and setup for the project, but typically it is $150 per hour for architectural design services. Interior design services are typically $200 per hour.
$150 per hour! Wow, that is a lot of money. Why so much?
As in any professional career, training and licensure is a long and difficult process. Architects have an understanding of important things like life safety and efficient space planning and can manage an entire team of consultants to deliver a great real physical thing – a home or building that will most likely outlast your lifetime. Get a consultation here.
Do you have any customer reviews?
Of course! We love working with our customers and do everything we can to make them happy with their experience. You can read our customer testimonials here and also see Haven Architecture reviews on our Houzz page. We love being an architect in the Buffalo NY area!
What’s my role in the design process?
Your architect will depend on you to communicate about your design preferences, functional requirements, and budget. Your timely response to questions and design submissions will help keep the project on track. It is also important for you to raise any concerns you have as the project proceeds, so they can be addressed in the earliest stages. Working in partnership with your architect, you will help ensure the best possible outcome for your project.
Can you stamp drawings so I can get a permit for my house?
We are registered in a few states throughout the country (including New York), and are able to stamp our drawings in those states. However, most projects (other than simple non-structural remodels) will require a structural engineer. We will hire and coordinate with the structural engineer to make sure everything goes smoothly and that structural engineer will stamp the structural drawings, while we will stamp our architectural drawings.
At this point I just want some design advice. Do you provide Consultations?
Yes, we do offer consultations (site visit, discussion on what you’d like to do, feedback, some quick design sketches, guidance on moving forward). Our fee is $250 per hour.
I have everything all worked out, but just need some drawings to submit for zoning or a building permit. Can you provide that?
Sorry. What you need is a draftsperson or a registered architect who is willing to take on a lot of risk for very little money. Haven Architecture does not yet offer basic drafting services. However, as we mentioned before, we work through specific design phases, in order to arrive at the best possible design solution for your needs. We want to work with you to come up with something even better than you imagined and design spaces that you will want to stay in for years to come.
Do you like being a Buffalo NY architect?
I love being an architect here in the Buffalo area! Western New York is so beautiful. There are so many great people here and friendly people to work with. The architecture in the Buffalo area is also amazing and provides great opportunities for creativity! I’m happy this is my home.
Are you on Houzz?
Yes, please check out our Houzz page here.
What areas do you service?
We are based in East Aurora, New York but we cover many parts of Western New York and primarily the greater Buffalo area. We’ve done projects from Niagara Falls to Chautauqua and cover everything in between like Lancaster, Clarence, Tonawanda, West Seneca, Orchard Park, Hamburg, Holland and more. If you are in the Buffalo, NY area and need an architect, please contact us and we would love to help!
Please feel free to contact us, as we are happy to chat or correspond via e-mail.
Address: PO Box 80, East Aurora NY 14052
Telephone: 716-646-8251
Email: info@havenarchitecture.com
Business Hours:
Monday – Thursday 8:00am to 5:00pm
Friday 8:00am to 3:00pm
Saturdays by appointment only
Sundays Closed