Choosing a Residential Architect That is Right for You
The Benefits of a Small Architecture Firm
Choosing an architecture firm for your residential remodel, addition, or new build can at first seem like a daunting task. Your initial worries could be how to choose an architecture firm that is right for you or outweighing the benefits of a small versus a large architecture firm. A small firm typically has under 20 architects and a large firm can have over 100. When it comes to working styles, there is a huge difference. At DK Studio, we believe in the service and personalization that comes working with a small and dedicated team. We want to make sure you know what to look for when choosing a residential architect and why a small firm may work best for your project.
On site with a client, first floor framing review
Finding an Architect to Match Your Work Style
When it comes to choosing a team of architects to design your space, it is important that you find an architecture firm that matches your own work style. Designing a home is truly a joint effort between the architects and clients, so you want to make sure you can work well together. At a small architecture firm, a higher level of personal service is attainable and architects and clients typically develop long-lasting, personal, one-on-one relationships. A client will typically have one point of contact throughout the entire project. Whereas at a large firm, there may be multiple people tracking the project, which could result in an impersonal relationship and small details falling through the cracks. Large firms may also pass on smaller projects that don’t have a high return on investment for the company, where a small firm would be willing to dive into a longer discovery process and hone in on specific details and finishes that the client is passionate about. At DK Studio, we pride ourselves in our attention to detail and client relationships, regularly taking calls and emails to be with them every step of the way when questions arise.
DK Studio Office
Choosing an Architect to Reflect Your Design Style
Even more important than work style when it comes to your home is design style! It is important to choose an architect and firm that can create the style home you want to live in. Sometimes larger architecture firms become known for a specific style or iconic structure, so when choosing a firm you can become limited if they do not specialize in the type of design you want for your project. Smaller firms, on the other hand, tend to love branching out and flexing their creative muscles on a variety of styles, which is great for someone who doesn’t want to mold to someone else’s vision. DK Studio has always worked on a wide range of projects and caters to the tastes, styles, needs, and desires of every client throughout the design and build process.
Remodel, Hillcroft Cove Residence
Building a Personal Relationship with Your Architect
We believe that the best part of working with a small architecture firm is building bonds and friendships. In residential projects, you are not just building a house but creating a home for people to make memories and share experiences. These projects are personal, and it’s important to treat them as such. While DK Studio primarily works on architecture projects in Austin, we have stuck with clients to build homes across the country as they enter the next chapter of their lives. When it comes to your project, we will be there to share a cup of coffee over the designs and cheers with you upon completion.
DK Studio Office
The Benefits of a Small Architecture Firm
Overall, the main benefits of working with a small architecture firm vs a large firm are:
1. One-on-one collaboration on your project
2. Fast response times and attentiveness
3. Emphasis on your personal design style
4. Opportunity to build a close relationship with your architect