Get matched with top architects in Santa Ynez, CA

While you will always work with a team of professionals at some point during your home build, homeowners with experience can take on some part of the process. Manage the initial brainstorm, brief writeup, and floor layout phase with minimal assistance before contacting a general contractor. And while you can purchase stock blueprints for some home designs, it's always best to speak with professionals when choosing one ideal for your property.

The biggest upside to hiring an architect is that they will ensure an efficient building process without errors. They will also ensure your home is free from structural issues and that everything is up to building code. Many permitting agencies require architects to draw construction plans and layouts before working, so hiring an architect will also ensure your project is legal. Additionally, architects help homeowners have a clear idea of their project details before the project starts. Hence, they help unify all parties on a shared vision for the project.

You have three options in terms of professionals who can draw up blueprints: a draftsperson, an architect, or a structural engineer. A draftsperson can sometimes draw up plans for new construction, but they more often work from approved plans for alterations or to provide 3D drawings. Architects are usually the best option for standard residential construction projects. Structural engineers might be necessary for custom home builds or for alterations that could affect your home’s structural integrity. Draftsmen cost the least of the three, followed by architects and then structural engineers.

There are differences between universal design and ADA accommodations, but the outcomes are often similar. While universal design is a proactive process that takes a social justice approach to accessibility for all, ADA accommodations are focused specifically on accessibility for individuals living with disabilities. ADA accommodations often take the shape of wider doors and hallways, ramps, elevators, lower counters and sinks, and easy-to-grab door handles; universal design can include these plus emphasize better lighting, tractioned floors, and other building elements that allow all people to use buildings more comfortably.