I guess, The architect was being "creative" and at the time, we agreed.

Also if anyone has any contractor/architect referrals for an ADU in Denver they would be greatly appreciated.  

I do this all the time for 8-5 job as an architect. 

Fact is, the print dictates what is or isn't to be done and with what material which likely has already been discussed between the architect and the owner.

A few years ago I started working on a degree called a 'Masters of Real Estate Development for Architects' (MRED) at Woodbury University in San Diego after getting jaded in a traditional Masters of Architecture program and applying to the MRED program on a whim.

Some will want to know who the engineer/architect is or who you are going to use as a contractor.

Hired an architect to draw-up prints and turn it into a duplex.

I had to have full architect drawings of the entire property, provide a copy of my survey, ect all to change a header that had rotted out on a back porch.

That is why I'm willing to pay an architect an extra few thousand dollars if they can get me a permit in a couple weeks vs a few months.  

As an architect I like the style on mansard roofs if they are done correctly.