Do You Need an Architect?

More often than not, in the residential home design industry, you will not need an architect. Architects are qualified professionals who work in tandem with engineers and other professionals to legally design complex new buildings. According to the Architect’s Act, architects are required for all high-rise projects, large commercial spaces, large multi-unit complexes and other different projects the that Architect’s Act determines. Architects are highly skilled professionals, however, very costly and unnecessary for most residential home design, small commercial spaces and small multi-unit townhouses. Architects are not required what-so-ever for the design of a new custom home as long as the home’s footprint does not exceed 5000 square feet.  That means that the house size on the property, not the living space. A house’s building footprint exceeding 5000 square feet is considered a large mansion and is rare in Victoria and most cities.

Remember, architects are coordinating professionals who have vast knowledge and experience in coordinating many different aspects and parties on a particular project. Depending on the size and scope of your project, this may not be a service that you require. If that is the case, there is no need for an architect in most cases. Residential home designers, like us, are qualified to design residential homes, small commercial spaces and small multi-unit townhouses as well as other different projects. We do it for less money, with more input from our clients and we get it done quicker because we are not bogged down with large complex projects, respectfully.

In conclusion, your new custom home, your small commercial space or your multi-unit townhouse with 4 units or less does not require an architect. A qualified designer such as us is perfectly able and legally allowed to design those projects.