Building or remodeling a home is an exciting opportunity to create a living space uniquely designed around you and your lifestyle. Maybe you imagine a gourmet kitchen complete with a built-in butler’s pantry. Or an expansive owner’s suite that overlooks the lake. If your current home just doesn’t work, is too small, or needs a serious revamp, working with an architect can help. From just a spark of an idea, the right architect can get those designs out of your head and onto a blueprint.
Collaborating with an architect who has a special focus on Minnesota’s unique climate, landscape, and building codes can also save you time and money in the long run. Because living here is not just about choosing cabinets and countertops. It’s about creating a space that reflects who you are while harmonizing with the state’s distinctive seasons and scenery.
Why Hire an Architect?
The key to turning your dreams into a finished home is all about getting the right people in the right seats, notes Nathan Carlson, Senior Project Development at Highmark Builders. “Working with an architect can stretch your imagination,” he says. “The right one can bring out the art in what you dream, and design something you might not have thought about.”
Most architects have both construction knowledge and design sense, allowing them to not only place walls and windows in the right locations, but to also understand how the elements piece together. “Based on the homeowners’ style, an architect can also advise on colors and textures. They act as a conduit, guiding ideas to flow from minds to paper,” says Nathan.
In addition, weather and geography can play a key role when designing a home in Minnesota. Architects here are well-versed in creating homes to withstand the cold winters and snowfall. If a lake home is more your style, an architect can design your home’s orientation for optimal sun exposure and lake views while also factoring in wind protection and navigating local zoning laws.
The Role of an Architect
Working with an architect starts at the vision planning phase and often ends once the plans are turned over to the builder, but there are many steps in between, including:
- Initial Consultation: In this first phase, you’ll sit down with the architect to discuss your vision, lifestyle needs, aesthetic preferences, budget, and timeline. “The architect needs to get to know the homeowners up front and learn everything there is to know about their needs and style,” says Nathan. Homeowners can bring photos and magazine clippings to this meeting to give the architect a better sense of what they’re looking for. Also, a list of “must-haves” is very helpful.
- Site Evaluation: If the homeowners have land or an existing home, it’s important to meet the architect onsite. Here, the architect can evaluate sun orientation, wind exposure, any drainage issues, and much more. This type of site-specific planning can help ensure your home’s design will fit the land and Minnesota’s diverse seasons.
- Preliminary Design: It’s now time for the architect to turn your ideas into conceptual floor plans, which will include elevations and site layouts. Once you review the floor plans, you’ll have the opportunity to revise and reimagine. “We repeat this step until the homeowners are happy with the design,” says Nathan.
- Design Development: Once the conceptual design is approved, the architect will flesh out more details, including window placement, rooflines, ceiling heights, materials, and more. Some architects use 3D software, which will allow homeowners to virtually walk through the new home.
- Documents and Permits: Detailed blueprints are then created by the architect. These are used to obtain building permits and guide the builder.
- Construction Phase: During the build process, some architects offer construction management for an additional fee. Working with an architect in this way allows them to function as the liaison between the homeowners and the builder. The architect will do site visits to ensure everything is progressing according to plan. “For larger projects, it’s better to have architects walk side by side with the client in case they change their minds,” says Nathan.
Your Custom Home Starts with the Right Architect
Whether you’re building a modern cottage on Prior Lake or revamping a Victorian in Minneapolis, one primary key to a successful outcome is working with an architect. In doing so, you can rely on their expert skills to turn your dreams into a livable design and allow you to enjoy the creative journey.
Contact Highmark Builders today to discuss ideas for your dream home during an initial consultation.
For more inspiration, check out our design gallery.
