Is there a need for Architects in REI?

Question

Hi All,

I just started working at an architecture firm in Hartford, Connecticut. We do a lot of old mill to apartment complex conversions as well as historic preservations. For those of you who find yourselves into more commercialized BRR or Renovation projects, do you find yourselves seeking the aid of an architect, or does that work go to someone else? Is it dependent on the size of the project? I know we do some small projects, so I'm curious where you guys see the need for an architect.

-Filipe

David Sisson · Answer

I do some investor type work. It's often fairly basic "permit drawings" level work - not a full "design" project, so not huge dollar for your firm. Learning to bring work in to your firm is challenging as an everyday architecture employee - you are mostly at your desk doing work, and not getting out there and talking to people - this networking is what brings in work. Finding the RIGHT people to talk to is also challenging - I find that commercial realtors, contractors are both great to talk to and network with. Then, just talk to everyone you know and talk about what they might know about or be interested in doing in the future, or who they might know is considering building/renovating in the future. Word of mouth eventually builds up. Open "networking" events are usually a waste of time - same with BNI type stuff. Networking with investors might be useful - not sure. If your firm does a particular type of work - multifamily residential for example - then you need to network with contractors that do MFR and developers who do MFR.

Matt R. · Answer

I was more referring to code analysis stuff.  Many remodels require full code analysis, especially in Denver and all that must be done by a licensed architect.  I've even gotten stuck down at the city on some small remodels when they wanted an architect to prepare plans with full site plans, zoning and code analysis.....for interior remodels.  It's crazy here right now.

William Morrison · Answer

I hope not.  You may have mixed up a structural/civil engineer or an Architectural Engineer (which is not a straight AIA Architect by degree or registration) with a four year Architect.Many locations also have two General Contractor licenses, one for new work and one for remodeling.  The remodeling license can require the ability to do structural calculations.  Check their number and you'll see many have the one without the calculation requirement but they are working the remodel business requiring it.  The reason the new work does not require it is the permitting process will generally assure that a PE has signed the structural design.

Phil Z. · Answer

I have seen investors use them on commercial/apartment building conversions and even on a residential layout re-designing.

David Dachtera · Answer

@Filipe Pereira,

Yes - even mid-level rehabs sometimes need an architect, especially when someone wants to remove a load bearing wall to make a more open living space, or make changes in the support for the main floor joists, etc.

Sometimes people will add a story to a 1-story home. They need an architect to figure out how to shore up the first floor to support the new second floor.

David J Dachtera

"Success is not a destination. Failure is not an event. Success is a process, failure is a choice."- DJ Benedict

Filipe Pereira · Answer

hahaha^The project I am working on right now has us doing Fire Code diagram as the building does not currently meet the code reqs for egress. It's an old commercial building that we are breathing new life into. Check us out. Crosskey Architects

William Morrison · Answer

Matt, funny unless you're the guy.  I was in a meeting on a $10 mil interior commercial remodel when the Landscape Architect asked for the site plans and analysis, he just had to have it.  (not Colorado)  Everyone in the room tried to look straight forward and not make eye contact.  Even his co-workers were trying not to laugh or get mad.  Luckily common sense took over when a supervisor said it's an interior only job, next question.  We all breathed a sigh of relief.You made me laugh as I remembered the meeting.By the way the government job title of the person doing reviews maybe just be Architect as in my case but the person can be an Engineer or Architect looking for signatures, seals, code issues etc.Good Luck to ya.     Hope thing go smooth next trip to the permit office.

William Morrison · Answer

Interesting Matt, you caused the old guy to go look.  Grin.  It's true but the stamped plans you spoke of depending on what they cover, site, structure etc will be Engineers not the Architect.  Life safety issues are sometimes caught between the two.  All fun, you just need to know who you need for what.

Joseph Kaiser · Answer

I'm in a similar boat, @Filipe Pereira

Graduated from architecture school, still unlicensed. Looking to get more into rehabs - so far at networking events everyone says "they'll give me a call", personally I'm working on my niche where I can show houses as a realtor, then tell them about the potential the house has, and then draw it up for them. Done this with a few projects, so far both investors and regular customers have found it useful.

-Joe

Is there a need for Architects in REI?

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