Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I afford an architect?
Mitchell Barnett, A.I.A (MB): You really can’t afford not to hire an architect if you are planning on a custom design. Working with an architect will ultimately save you money by avoiding costly mistakes and oversights.
2. My builder says we don’t need an architect and that we could save a lot of money by using a draftsman. Why should we hire an architect?
MB: Many people are tempted to go the less expensive route by hiring a draftsman. When you hire a draftsman, you are only purchasing a drawing of a house. When you hire Mitchell Barnett Architect, P.C., you are entering into a relationship that offers you many valuable services. On a custom project, these services ultimately save you time, money and frustration.
3. Should I choose my builder before
choosing my architect?
MB: There is an advantage of working with Mitchell Barnett Architect, P.C. before selecting a builder. We guide clients through the selection process of finding a builder that best meets your needs and requirements. We recommend reputable builders depending on the scope and style of home you desire. If you have already selected a builder, we are eager to work together to provide you with your dream home. At our firm, we are interested in putting in place the best architect/builder team possible that will result in a positive outcome.
4. How long does the design process take?
MB: We do the best we can to work within the time frame the homeowner identifies. The client’s desires and stipulations will dictate our pace.
5. Should I hire an architect prior to purchasing my property?
MB: It is not necessary, but there have been several occasions where we have prevented clients from making the mistake of purchasing property that was not “buildable”. Not every piece of property is suited for every custom home design. As part of our service, we will walk the property with you and determine its suitability for your home. If you have already purchased your property, we will walk it with you and make sure the home we design is perfect for your property.
6. Can Mitchell Barnett Architect, P.C. provide architectural services outside the state of TN?
MB: Yes, Mitchell Barnett, A.I.A. is licensed and has designed homes and commercial property throughout the United States.
7. How does your company differ from hiring a draftsman?
MB: Mitchell Barnett, AI.A. and his staff have acquired the education and training to help provide a better home for our clients while maintaining quality and cost control. We provide extensive services before and during construction to ensure your dream home is completed to your expectations. The knowledge we acquire on materials, building products, space planning and interior design and the relationships we maintain with industry professionals enable us to meet any and all design challenges. At Mitchell Barnett Architect, P.C., we offer more than a drawing. We offer a well thought out detailed design in both function and form, from the inside out.
8. Will hiring your firm rather than a draftsman help me stay on budget?
MB: When Mitchell Barnett Architect, P.C. provides you with drawings and a design plan, we are providing you with a legal document that serves a purpose. The more specific and complete drawings provided, the more specific and complete bids you can expect from a builder. Less detailed plans from a draftsman can result in less accurate bids from a builder. This is where huge budget overages often occur.