When to engage an architect?

I took my architect and a contractor. The contractor found out problems that the architect didn't. I'd call a contractor and ask him for a budget. It's for free and you'll have a better idea of the cost.

thanks mimi, so did you have to pay the architect to come in for that (before you bid on the place?)

Having a prospective architect visit a property with you could certainly be considered part of the interview process - particularly now with everything as slow as it is. This interview process goes both ways so it would also give the designer a better idea about what you want and need prior to preparing a contract and allow them to determine if it was something they were even interested in.

No, he is a friend. I don't think an architect will ask you for money for a consultation. Next time, I am planning to take just the contractor, as it seems they are the ones that know the most about this.

hurting

I took my contractor in. She did not ask for any money - they look at it as their 'pitch' for the job. I agree with mimi they are better than the architect just for the all round knowledge.

With a gut renovation, you have to have some idea of the cost to factor into your offer.

As a warning though, they can only comment on what they can see so any budget they provide will be preliminary still - and only goes one way.....

Thanks all! So, it sounds like the best option is to engage a contractor first and then the architect?

You certainly want to get someone who knows what they're doing & the person with whom you will be working because 3 contractors will probably have 3 opinions so choose carefully; but they are the ones who are going to be going into the walls & ceilings & floors & have seen many others as well. If you already have an architect see who they recommend & trust & know they can work with. It's a huge undertaking & a protracted one, so choose carefully.

Does anyone have background on architect fees for a gut renovation? Are they a percent of estimated cost, cost per square foot or time (rate per hour) based? What are the norms for each?

my architect charges 20% on all costs -- she does everything from drawings, hiring contractors, even interior design.

Thanks, apt23

It depends what you need. I am doing everything through my contractor - she has her architect to do the drawings then uses all her own subcontractors. If you just require an architect for DOB plans that is fine, if you need more interior design stuff, you need an architect to do a lot more.

I think an Architect or better yet, an interior designer often more specialized with renovations, finishes part etc). The interior designer may have to bring an architect on board if walls are moved around and probably works with one.

Either ways my advice would be to plan the project first and the architect or the interior designer before anything starts.

A- It is easier to have an accurate estimate knowing exactly what you want then by stating vague ideas.
B- Planning and building are two different issues (and trades) that require different skills. For instance, a contractors may not be aware of all the regulatory issues when planning like egress, ventilation requirements. NYC is a complex environment. If something is not feasible it is best to know from the start.
C- You may prefer the project planned according to your needs and not to what trades feels will be the easiest to find, order or to install for them (i.e. the same thing as on the last job). A design professional may also be aware about more fixtures material and finishes options as well as utilize the space more efficiently.

That being said there is nothing wrong selecting a contractor now and getting a ball park figure, especially since you will need a contractor sooner or later if you chose to move on, but I am not sure the contractor is the best person to plan the project.

If need be; let me know, I would be delighted to refer you to qualified professionals.