- 1). Ask acquaintances for names of architects that they have worked with or that work in your area. You should get names of at least three architects before choosing someone to work with. If you are not able to find an architect, search online or visit the American Institute or Architects website to find architects registered in Louisiana.
- 2). Meet with the various architects and hire the one with whom you feel the most comfortable. You will be working with the architect before, during and after the construction of your house. This process usually lasts for six months to a year, so it is important to find an architect you like.
Your architect will require a fee based on time, work completed or a percentage of the projected building cost. This fee will be in addition to the building budget, so plan accordingly. - 3). Provide the space requirements, location, and budget to your architect, as well as any home plans you have found or purchased. Express your home preferences and desires, and the architect will produce a range of solutions for your home in the schematic design phase.
- 4). Give the architect feedback about the schematic design options. The architect will continue to develop the project over the following weeks in the design development phase. When you and the architect have come to agreement about the design of the house, the architect will develop construction drawings, also called contract documents.
- 5). Review the contract documents and make any desired changes. When the design and drawings are complete, the architect will stamp the home plans and submit them to your local municipality. The municipality will review the drawings and make any necessary changes or comments.
- 6). Work with your architect to find a licensed and insured general contractor that practices in Louisiana. Again, ensure you are able to work with the chosen general contractor--you will need to interact with him or her throughout the duration of construction.
The general contractor will also require a fee for the completion of your home. Often, this is built into the price quoted by the general contractor. - 7). Discuss any concerns with the construction with the architect and the general contractor. Do not interact with the hired contractors working for the general contractor, instead talk with the general contractor about any concerns with the workmanship or construction schedule.
- 8). Walk through your completed home with the architect and general contractor to make sure there aren't any remaining, incomplete items in the house's construction.
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