How an Architect Can Save You Time and Money During Construction

If you’re planning a remodel or new build, have you considered how involving an Architect throughout the construction phase could save you both time and money? Proactive Architect involvement can help prevent costly mistakes, minimize delays, and ensure that your project stays on track. It’s natural for plans to evolve once construction begins—have you thought about how you’ll handle those changes effectively?

While hiring an Architect during construction may add some upfront cost, it’s an investment that pays dividends in the form of higher quality, fewer unexpected expenses, and more streamlined progress. By making informed decisions during this crucial phase, you’ll avoid the need for expensive fixes down the line, ultimately safeguarding the longevity and success of your home.

Building or renovating a home is a journey full of important decisions, creative challenges, and the excitement of watching your vision come to life. After collaborating with your Architect to perfect the design, the construction phase begins. But does the Architect’s role end when the final plans are handed over to the Contractor?

In fact, this phase—known as Construction Observation & Evaluation—is one where an Architect’s continued involvement is critical. Let’s explore why keeping your Architect on board throughout construction can be one of the most valuable decisions you make.

* Photo above is by Mikael Blomkvist on Pexels.com – If a photographer followed me on a site visit, this is what it would look like! There’s usually a lot of walking around, reviewing the drawings, and discussing the details with the team to make sure everything is on track. *

The Architect’s Role During Construction

When we enter the Construction phase, the Architect’s role shifts from creating to safeguarding and guiding. At this stage, our focus is on making sure that every element is built according to plan, and we’re here to answer questions, spot issues, and provide solutions along the way. Here’s what we bring to the table:

1. Quality Assurance: We make sure each detail of your home aligns with the original design intent, reviewing materials, craftsmanship, and finishing touches that make all the difference.
2. Problem Solving on the Spot: Construction often brings surprises, especially in remodels. When unforeseen conditions arise, an Architect can quickly assess and recommend solutions that stay true to your vision.
3. Clear Communication Between All Parties: As your Architect, we act as a bridge between you and the Contractor, translating the technical aspects of the design and ensuring the whole team stays on the same page.

Real-World Examples of Architect Involvement

As you read through these examples of how an Architect can make a difference during construction, think about your own experiences. Have you ever faced unexpected issues during a remodel or new build that could have been managed more smoothly with an Architect’s guidance?

What does an Architect’s involvement look like in practice? Here are a few common scenarios where we’ve made a difference for our clients:

• Catching Errors and Misinterpretations: On a recent project, we designed a porch that needed a level transition to ensure accessibility for a client’s sister, who uses a wheelchair. However, the Contractor ordered trusses that created a step down onto the porch, contradicting the design’s intent. When the client reached out to us, we quickly clarified that the drawings specified a level surface. The Contractor ultimately had to reorder the trusses and cover the cost of the mistake. Without our active involvement, this oversight could have gone unnoticed, compromising accessibility and adding unexpected costs. Our role ensured the design remained accessible, just as planned.
• Managing the Unexpected in Remodels: Remodels often reveal surprises once walls are opened and framing is exposed. In one project, we planned to move a staircase, but when the Contractor began demolition, they discovered that the floor framing was different than anticipated. The Contractor communicated their findings and proposed an alternative solution to meet code and design needs. With our input, we were able to adapt the plan, preserving the original layout and ensuring the design remained intact.
• Maintaining Design Integrity in Details: Design decisions like a specific tile pattern or the way window sills are installed may seem small, but they make a big impact on the look and feel of the home. In a recent bathroom remodel, we specified a sleek, modern tile layout in a stacked pattern around a shower window, chosen to match the client’s contemporary aesthetic. During a site visit, we noticed that the tilers had started with a traditional staggered pattern, which didn’t align with the design intent. The issue arose because the Contractor hadn’t left a copy of the drawings on site for the tilers to reference, so they proceeded without knowing the intended layout. Our quick course correction ensured that this important design detail was executed as planned, preserving the clean, modern look the homeowners envisioned. This example underscores how an Architect’s involvement helps maintain design integrity, even in details that might otherwise be overlooked.
• Guiding Informed Homeowner Decisions: On a recent project, we specified that window sills should overhang to prevent rainwater from seeping into the walls. However, when we visited the site, we noticed that the precast sills had been installed flush with the wall instead. While the drawings clearly showed an overhang—and the existing windows on the home also had this feature—the flush installation could lead to water issues over time. We explained the purpose of the overhang to the homeowners, empowering them to make an informed decision about whether to require the Contractor to replace the sills. Ultimately, they opted to accept the installation as-is, confident in their choice after understanding the potential trade-offs.
• Facilitating Smooth Adjustments to the Project: Having an Architect readily available during construction helps facilitate necessary changes due to field conditions. On one addition project, we planned to remove only part of an old deck near the new structure, but during demolition, the Contractor discovered the entire deck was in poor condition. We discussed options with the homeowners, ultimately deciding to replace the deck fully and add new features. With our active involvement, we could quickly incorporate these changes into the drawings, keeping the project on track while enhancing the final outcome.
• Post-Construction Support: Even after construction ends, an Architect’s expertise can be valuable for ensuring that everything functions as expected. From assisting with warranty issues to offering advice for future improvements, having your Architect’s support doesn’t have to end when the project is complete. We’ve gotten calls about re-roofing options, drainage system inspections, and more recently questions about flood recovery, from past Clients.

The Process of Construction Observation & Evaluation

Without the guidance of an Architect, small issues can escalate into costly mistakes. Not only does early intervention save money, but it also prevents delays that can extend your timeline and inflate your budget.

So, what does it mean for your Architect to be involved during construction?

1. Regular Site Visits: We’ll conduct scheduled visits to observe progress and catch issues early. Whether it’s the framing stage or final finishes, these check-ins help us keep the design on course.
2. Responding to Field Conditions: Unexpected site conditions or product availability changes are common. Your Architect can make adjustments in real-time that maintain the overall intent of the design without compromising quality or function.
3. Reviewing Contractor Requests for Changes: Sometimes, Contractors request changes for convenience or due to field conditions. We assess these requests to ensure that any adjustments stay true to your vision. If a change will impact the design, functionality, or budget, we help you weigh the pros and cons before you approve anything.
4. Managing Communication and Documentation: Keeping track of what’s been approved, what’s changing, and what’s coming next can be overwhelming. We act as a central point of communication, documenting each change and making sure the team has the latest information.

Throughout construction, we don’t just observe—we actively manage the execution of the design. From reviewing requests for changes to handling unforeseen issues, we ensure that everything stays true to your vision. Whether it’s making on-the-spot adjustments or ensuring code compliance, we’re your advocates on the ground.

How We Add Value for You

Are there details in your design that you’re particularly passionate about—like a unique tile pattern or the accessibility of a space—that you want to ensure are executed exactly as planned? How might having an Architect available during construction help you maintain the integrity of those important design choices?

An Architect’s role doesn’t have to be adversarial with the Contractor. In fact, when we’re involved, it fosters collaboration, keeps misunderstandings to a minimum, and ensures that both design and construction professionals are working toward the same goal: your satisfaction and peace of mind.

Having your Architect actively engaged during construction can help in:

• Saving Time and Money: By catching issues early, we can prevent costly rework and delays.
• Improving Quality and Consistency: With regular site visits, we can address details as they arise and make sure that the execution matches the vision.
• Providing Peace of Mind: You can feel confident knowing that there’s a trained eye looking out for your best interests, quality, and vision from start to finish.

Bringing It All Together: A Team Approach

The best results come when the Architect, Contractor, and Homeowner work as a team. With open communication, trust, and a shared goal, the project can move forward smoothly. As your Architect, it’s our honor to help you bring your vision to life, from the earliest sketches to the final walk-through.

Construction Observation & Evaluation: A Lasting Investment

Hiring an Architect during the construction phase is not just a service—it’s an investment in the quality, durability, and long-term satisfaction of your home. Whether you’re building your dream home or remodeling an existing space, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Ready to make your vision a reality? Contact us today to learn how we can help.