Finding and then Hiring and Architect

Whether the project is commercial or residential, Owners often struggle with the ‘Where do I begin?’ question in looking for an Architect.  The first question really should be ‘When do I begin?’   The answer: As early as possible.  Even if you are unsure of your potential project making complete sense, an architect can help.  For business and public clients, it is not uncommon to have an architect develop a Feasibility Study –to see if what you would like to do has merit.  This can be of limited scope and is very helpful in clarifying any issues related to the project –to even see if it makes sense to move forward before you expend substantial time and money.  These types of Service Options will be discussed in a future ‘Working with an Architect Series’ post.

Some Architects specialize in a style or type.  Most are generalists and will help to bring out your style.  A great ‘one-stop’ location to search for architects is through The American Institute of Architects (AIA). Here you can research firms, get contact data and find other valuable information.  Most Registered Architects are members of a chapter in their home area.  We belong to AIA Minnesota.

Definitely ask friends and colleagues, realtors and contractors for any recommendations.  Don’t rely solely on the Yellow Pages as many firms have transitioned to using the Internet as their main place to ‘show their wares’.  In the end, a face to face meeting with a handful of short-listed firms is the best way to feel comfortable making a selection.

Typically, there is no charge for that initial meeting with a firm.  This is a great opportunity to not only review qualifications but to also make sure there is a mesh in personalities and philosophies.  As for the qualifications, it is important to:
1. See past examples (of similar scope/size) –If possible, even set up an on-site tour.
2. Get a list of references.  Not only of past clients but also from General contractors.  This will be helpful in understanding how issues were handled and the dynamics of working as part of a team.
3. Don’t get too bogged down with the ‘fee’ question.  It is hard for architects to pin down an exact fee this early in the discussion.  We can certainly give an estimate based upon similar projects or based upon the proposed budget.  Initially, we will often work hourly to help refine the scope and goals.  This then can be credited into a formal and fixed proposal.

The selected architect will then define a list of services provided, associated schedule and the fee arrangement.

Our job as architects is to gather and present the information you need to make appropriate decisions for your project.  To be creative in the solutions and to be am advocate for your goals.  To use your resources- financial, time, etc., wisely.  And make the experience enjoyable, comfortable and positive.

Here is a great resource sheet from AIA Minnesota on ‘How to Hire the Right Architect for Your Project’

In this Audiopost, we speak with Insurance Agent Branden McDonald about what you need to know when starting a construction project.  Some of the topics include:

-What are the main things people need to be aware of when beginning a construction project?
-Who needs to carry insurance -the Owner or Contractor?
-How are the needs of coverage determined?
-Is there a difference between new construction or a remodeling?
-What specifically is covered in case of theft or damage to materials/tools, etc.
-Any tips to reduce premiums while maximizing coverage?

Please subscribe to our podcasts on iTunes
-search for the title ‘Design & Other Fun Stuff’.

You can reach Branden with additional questions at
Phone:  (715)-386-9494  
or Email: branden.mcdonald@amfam.com
Web: www.stevemcdonaldagency.com
FB: www.facebook.com/branden.mcdonald

Although most of my product research is now found via the internet, there are still a few favorite ‘stand-by’ resources that are kept on compact disc. While shuffling through CD’s the other day, I reminisced on the racks I had built to store them. Similar to the previous DIY Design posts, here is another example of using inexpensive materials and a few basic tools to change a usually utilitarian thing into something fun and unique.

Half of the fun is over-designing (if there is such a thing!) and being playful…to bring a smile to your face.

I realize that compact discs may soon be gone but wouldn’t these make nice iPad or Kindle storage systems? Or maybe drying racks for reusing tiny plastic baggies? 🙂   Click on the pictures to enlarge.

As you can tell from our site, one of my more recent obsessions is Photography.  Not unlike architecture, there is an artistry to doing it well.  You can define an experience, create a mood and evoke thoughtful discussion.  Instead of ‘tweeting’ some images and links for Photography Friday, I thought I would formalize a post and share with you some images taken by Jeff Bucklew.  Jeff is an advanced hobbyist photographer I recently met through the Western Wisconsin Photography Club.  Please click on the audio and then on the images to hear Jeff talk about the photographs.  You can see more of Jeff’s work at this link.

wildlife photography interview

While driving through town yesterday, I took a few pictures (see below) which prompted me to write this post.  We have been hit hard here in the midwest with cold temperatures and snow.  This sets up a perfect storm to develop Ice Dams.

Ice dams are caused by heat escaping at the intersection of the exterior wall and roof.  Older homes are the most susceptible because of the way they used to be built.  Typically, 2×4 or 2×6 rafters were set right on the top of the exterior wall framing.  This only allows for a minimal amount of insulation at this point.  The escaping heat melts the snow that has gathered on the roof and refreezes when it hits the overhang -causing an ‘ice dam’.  This can cause major damage to the roof, gutters and siding as well as lead to potential leaks, creating more problems.

You probably have seen the zig-zag heating element wires used to melt the dams at the roofs edge.  Ideally, you want to get more insulation at this point so you are not losing heat (thus energy).  One option is to put vent chutes in the rafter space, to keep air circulating in the attic, and then use a foam insualtion that has a better R-value at the roof/wall location.  Another option,when you next replace the roofing material, is to install furring strips to create venting right under the finished roof.  The goal is to keep this material cold so there is no melting.

New construction uses an Energy Heel truss which raises the height of the ‘attic’ area at the exterior wall.  This allows for more insulation to be installed at that vulnerable location.

To remove ice dams, the best way is to use steam.  There are many services that are equipped for this and it is important to have them removed before more damage is done.

Click on the images below to enlarge.

In this Audiopost, we discuss Geo Thermal Heating and Cooling basics.  Mechanical Contractor Mike Anderson of  Anderson Heating answers our questions.  Some of those include:

– What is Geo Thermal Heating?
– Explain the different options of transferring energy with the ground.  Horizontal, vertical, etc.
– How is energy from the ground actually converted to be used in our buildings?
– What is the cost & payback of a typical system?

Please ‘click’ on the images below to enlarge.

You can reach Anderson Heating at Phone: (715)-549-6297
Web: www.andersonheating.biz

Please subscribe to our podcasts on iTunes
-search for the title ‘Design & Other Fun Stuff’.

Just for fun, I thought I would share this video showing some creative contractors and a tape measure. You never know what talent people have…or how bored they may be to develop that talent!

Stopped by my friends shop (Carlsgaard Custom Cabinets and Carpentry) to see what was going on. He and the crew were putting together some drawers for a casework project. I grabbed my camera and assembled this video using some of the random clips. This was a great test run to hopefully film some other projects with Tom and get some great ‘tips and tricks’. www.carlsgaardcarpentry.com

Once upon a time, the Library along with the City Hall, Post Office, School and Church were the main civic buildings that defined a community. In the age of e-readers (hey, I have one) and the internet, the importance of the library appears to be dwindling. (Don’t get me started on the lack priorities when it comes to schools…)

Our existing library facility was in bad shape and it was a struggle for our community to see the value of updating or providing them a new building. Our police department was in the same situation and with some creative discussions, a partnership was formed. With the passion of volunteers and lots of hard work, the library and police department purchased, and now share an existing building within the downtown core.

I am fortunate to be part of the Library Communications Committee and recorded the Grand Opening seen in the below video. The library is now back to being a vital gathering point and resource for our community. Please take time to visit, support and appreciate similar resources that help give your own community an identity.

Welcome to our first official Podcast!  We know design and architecture but recording/interviewing?…Learning! It will take a while for us to find our groove so please stick with us and let us know your thoughts.   These are also available on iTunes -search for the title ‘Design & Other Fun Stuff’.

In this Audiopost, we speak with Associated Bank’s Residential Loan Officer Jason Stoll about construction loans.  Some of the topics include:

-What are the main things people need to be aware of when beginning a construction project as it relates to obtaining a loan?
-What information should the Clients bring to that initial meeting?
-How are the loan amounts determined and evaluated?
-How does the construction payment process work?
-What fees are associated with getting a loan?

Here is a mortgage calculator to plug in some ‘what ifs’. It is on the sidebar within the link.

You can reach Jason with additional questions at
Phone:  (715)-377-4132

Email: jason.stoll@associatedbank.com

Here is a fun idea that we have incorporated on several projects.

The steel grates pictured here are from McMaster. The part number is 6849T423. The exterior grate is galvanized while the interior one is not.

Please check out the video!