Architect advice needed

[SprintCC]

Need some help here. I've done graph paper drawing of my dream-garage, but reading the info I have from my township it states that I need architectural drawings for the approval process. Also talking to other people I work with they recommend getting a Architect familiar with my township to create some plans to use, that way when I get bids I can have them bid on something specific, comparing apples to apples.

I'm new to the area, don't know that many people, none I do know have hired an architect and the people I've talked with about the architect all live 30+ miles away (probably won't be familiar with my township)

I did cold call one from the yellowpages. She was unimpressive. She stated that houses run $150 sq ft in this area (which they do *not*, unless they are customs), I said it was a garage, no central air, no basement, no flooring (outside of concrete), no interior structure, limited plumbing, limited electricty, I was going to do the insulation, drywall, paint and most electricity. "Oh, then it might be $140 sq ft". Did not hit me up as overly bright or frankly overly interested.

So now I've bored you with commentary here are my questions:
How do you find a reasonable, competent architect when word-of-mouth isn't working?
How important is it that they be familiar with the local township?
What exactly can I expect out of them? Just necessary pretty drawings or do they do more?

Any other recommendations on what I'm missing would be appriciated.

Thanks!

SprintCC
Blue Bell Pa

 

[BoostAddiction]

I think the "architectural drawings" referenced here can be drawn by anyone. Nowadays, if you have a CAD program, you can produce them. Don't be confused by the name- it is most likely referring to the *kind* of drawings they can produce, as opposed to drawings that only an architect can create.

Have fun with the new CAD programs- or just draw them up carefully by hand- that's how I started in high school drafting class!

-Will

 

[Cebby]

You can save yourself some money by drawing the plans up yourself, but many times you will need to have "stamped" drawings. This means an architect has reviewed them to be sure they are up to code. Many architects will do this. Look to the individuals with their own business for this. Most of the time in architectural firms, CAD technicians (not architects) are doing the drawings anyway.

You might also consider working with a design-build group. They can work with you to develop the drawings, handle getting the approvals, and build the structure also. I am the "design" part of a couple of these types of outfits. I also do CAD drawings for homeowners for renovations/remodelling. I have a relationship with a couple of architects who stamp my drawings - half the time, I don't they even look at them.

Get a copy of the township's codes. Some townships adopt Boca codes, some use Labor and Industry (known as L&I) Codes, some come up with their own thing. They all have their quirks. From the sounds of what you've listed, there shouldn't be much that is out of the ordinary.

Oh, and not to be a total male chauvanist pig, but what the hell would possess you to contact a WOMAN about GARAGE plans.

 

[mleichtle]

I recomend you call the local lumberyard or even the building inspecter, they'll give you a contact, the lumberyard may draw them for you for free if you go through them for the materials.

 

[CraigFL]

There are usually individuals available with CAD programs and code knowledge that will draw up plans for you. Look in the yellow pages under "Designers-Residential"

 

[Daryl]

Since I'm an Architect I thought I'd reply. It's best you question your Building Department to pin them down on requirements. If they just need drawings prepared to scale, that's one thing. Sealed drawings are another deal altogether. By affixing his seal to a drawing the Architect certifies that the design and drawing were prepared under his (or her) direct supervision, and that everything about the project meets or exceedes code minimums. If you are working with a general contractor, he may know an Architect who can help you out. Unfortunately, in this litigation-happy country of ours, we architects have to be very careful about what we affix our seals to. We accept liability for that project, and must maintain "errors and omissions" insurance to protect us if something goes wrong on the jobsite. Unfortunately, many insurance companies now prohibit their insureds from getting involved in small projects like garages. This may be why your Architect was a bit stand-offish. Also, the various states are cracking down on "plan stamping". (That's where an Architect just looks at and stamps a design and drawing he didn't do.) It is illegal, and if caught doing it, you can have your license revoked. Anyway, talk to the Building Department. Each one is different and has different requirements. They may need structural calculations, wind resistance anchorage specifications, etc. etc. They may even be willing to refer you to someone who can help you. Good luck.

 

[Sundowner]

the other option is to seek out an online service.
there are any number of companies that sell garage plans on line for a very small fee, and will stamp them for a not-so-very-small fee (usually $200-$400)
any decent comapny will modify the plans to your needs.

you can also try something like connestoga pole barns. they are local to you and will do the whole kit-and-kaboodle from plans to building, but you gotta pull your own permits.

I'm goping through this right now with my own garage plan sets. The township wants them stamped, but I'm a Professional Engineer so it's pretty easy for me to reach in the drawer and just do it myself.
no architects for me! (they're an engineer's mortal enemy)

 

[krooser]

I recomend you call the local lumberyard or even the building inspecter, they'll give you a contact, the lumberyard may draw them for you for free if you go through them for the materials.

Yep...What HE said....