Get matched with top architects in Van Meter, IA

Q: How much does universal design cost?

• <div><p>Universal design costs can be minimal when you add them during construction; however, adding universal design principles to existing homes can sometimes increase renovation costs. For example, a mid-grade bathroom remodel is estimated to cost around $30,000, while a standard universal design remodel can cost closer to $40,000. Adding accessible design components can include widening hallways ($500 to $2,000), curbless showers ($2,000 to $8,000), and widening doors ($400 to $800). Keep in mind that these increased costs can lead to higher resale values because universal homes may appeal to a wider variety of buyers.</p></div>

Q: What are the disadvantages of building a house?

• <div><p>Above all, the downside to building a new house is a longer timeline. You need several months to finish the build, depending on the supply chain and labor availability in the meantime. Building a home compared to buying one is also more expensive, both in the building process and when it comes to mortgage rates and property taxes. </p></div>

Q: At what point in my project should I involve an architect?

• <div><p>You should have an architect involved in your project from the very beginning. They&rsquo;ll be able to direct your vision into workable plans, and they can advise you on potential problems right from the start. You may be able to save money by not using an architect, but larger projects will go much more smoothly with an experienced pro directing the process.</p></div>

Q: What’s the difference between an architect and an engineer?

• <div><p>The essential difference between an architect and an engineer is that architects typically focus more on the aesthetic design of buildings, although not without consideration for the structural integrity of the building. Engineers focus more on the structural, technical, and practical aspects of whether and how an architectural design can be built as drawn. You may need to hire both types of professionals if you&rsquo;re designing and building a new home.</p></div>

Q: What is considered universal design?

• <div><p>Universal design is a design concept that states that products, spaces, and general environments are designed to be used by everyone, with an emphasis on accessibility for those with limited mobility or other special needs.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your architectural service project in Van Meter, IA?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Architectural Service pros in Van Meter, IA

*The Angi rating for Architectural Service companies in Van Meter, IA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Architectural Service needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Architectural Service companies in Van Meter, IA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Architectural Service needs.

Last update on March 24, 2026

Reviewed in March 2026
Certa Pros did a great job with my interior painting. I would recommend this company.
CertaPro Painters
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2025
Abraham was very prompt visiting my home to bid on my insulation project after I called him. Once I accepted his proposal, the crew was able to begin work very quickly. The three workers were very friendly upon arriving. They were hard workers both days that they were completing the project....
INSULATE IOWA LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2025
I couldn’t be happier with my experience! From start to finish, working with Art House was an absolute pleasure. They were down to earth, fun to work with, and made the whole process feel easy and stress-free. Their attention to detail and craftsmanship are absolutely stunning — our space turned...
Art House Remodeling
Request a quote
Reviewed in September 2025
I couldn’t be happier with the work Gabriel did on my massage room! I asked for bold black walls, and they came out absolutely stunning—smooth, even, and with such a professional finish. The space feels both cozy and luxurious now, exactly the atmosphere I was hoping for. From start to finish,...
Blauth Painting LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in February 2025
This company is excellent. Very positive experience. The quality is excellent. Working very fast and accurate. They finished 920 sq foot for me. I can recommend them for anyone. You will not regret if you hired them.
Golden Oak Hardwood Floors LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in November 2024
Drew was efficient and conscientious. He did a great job of remodeling two bathrooms, making one a walk-in shower. He also painted both bathrooms and was very neat. He is honest and fair. I would recommend him to anyone for any kind of remodel work.
St Paul Handyman
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2024
Wes Clark painting and design did a great job with my basement finish! Very helpful advice and great work Completion on time and super easy to work with! If uou need any painting and remodel help this is a great place to contact for your project.
CLARK PAINTING + DESIGN
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2024
We were very impressed with this company. Their work was excellent. Very hard workers, polite, great communication, completed project in a timely manner and respected the property against damage from equipment. Highly recommend Iron - X Landscaping!
Iron-X Landscaping, LLC
Request a quote
Reviewed in July 2024
Did a great job start to finish From design person to the installer. The walk in shower they looks great!!!
Mad City Windows & Baths
Request a quote
Reviewed in October 2023
Kyle is the real deal on everything architecture. Great customer service and unbelievable turn around times. He even came to work on my project on a Sunday evening since I needed the plan asap. Look no further for your architect needs.
Desert Son Drafting
Request a quote

Find Architects in Van Meter

Creative Concepts Architecture, PLC

4.7(

)

Serving Van Meter, IA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2016

Free estimates

Small jobs welcome

"Created structural drawings for submission to the City of Ames in a very timely manner with great success for our project."

Response time1 day

Response rate94%

8 neighbors recently requested a quote

Serving Van Meter, IA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2018

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"To be honest Im dealing with a complicated district and I was kind of frustrated that my project was handed off to a new person but Raegan Hammon was the most patient, kind, professional and efficient Architect I have ever had the pleasure 🙏 of doing business with. Thank you for placing my project in her very capable hands. Forever grateful Leilee Keppard [*** Link removed ***]"

+23

Response time1 day

Response rate100%

70 neighbors recently requested a quote

Request Quote

Periphery Design, LLC

5.0(

)

Serving Van Meter, IA and surrounding areas

Approved

In business since 2004

Small jobs welcome

Offers commercial services

"Dave designed an addition for our home. The design is very cohesive and in harmony with the existing homeâ s architecture. His ideas, professionalism, and attention to detail are excellent, we look forward to the finished product."

Response time11 hrs

Response rate92%

1 neighbors recently requested a quote

Request Quote

deWit Construction & Remodeling

4.8(

)

Serving Van Meter, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Good. Really wonderful and we love it. They were very friendly, courteous and they did the work fine, and they were all kind."

Recommended by95%of homeowners

Request Quote

Des Moines Area Roofing

4.8(

275

)

Serving Van Meter, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Free estimates

Emergency services offered

"Des Moines Area Roofing was professional, trustworthy, and demonstrated excellent attention to detail from initial contact to job completion. Cleanup was so thorough that the next day you wouldn't even know that such a major project had taken place. It has been 2 weeks since the new roofs and we haven't seen even one stray nail left behind (and they did a complete tear down to both buildings, right down to the wood). An excellent company with which to do business. I offer my highest possible recommendation."

Recommended by99%of homeowners

Serving Van Meter, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 2008

Free estimates

Offers commercial services

"Our relationship with Tim was an exceptional one. We live in a house he designed, can not find any problems with it, he did a great job. The plans exceeded our expectations."

Response time1 day

Recommended by100%of homeowners

Request Quote

Laugerman Architects, Inc.

New to Angi

Serving Van Meter, IA and surrounding areas

In business since 1983

Free estimates

Credit card accepted

With over 30 years of experience in the architecture industry, we are the experts you need to take care of your home or business. We handle everything from churches to schools to houses. We will treat your home as we would treat our own. Give Laugerman Architects, Inc. a call today, we look forward to working with you!

Request Quote

Justin Frank Handyman Construction

New to Angi

Serving Van Meter, IA and surrounding areas

Emergency services offered

Credit card accepted

We specialize in interior and exterior painting services, cabinet painting, staining, and more! We guarantee your satisfaction, and we won’t leave until the job is done right. We pride ourselves on the quality work we provide, while delivering great customer service! Check out all the services we offer below and call -or- click to schedule a free estimate today!

Request Quote

Architects questions, answered by experts

Universal design costs can be minimal when you add them during construction; however, adding universal design principles to existing homes can sometimes increase renovation costs. For example, a mid-grade bathroom remodel is estimated to cost around $30,000, while a standard universal design remodel can cost closer to $40,000. Adding accessible design components can include widening hallways ($500 to $2,000), curbless showers ($2,000 to $8,000), and widening doors ($400 to $800). Keep in mind that these increased costs can lead to higher resale values because universal homes may appeal to a wider variety of buyers.

Above all, the downside to building a new house is a longer timeline. You need several months to finish the build, depending on the supply chain and labor availability in the meantime. Building a home compared to buying one is also more expensive, both in the building process and when it comes to mortgage rates and property taxes.

You should have an architect involved in your project from the very beginning. They’ll be able to direct your vision into workable plans, and they can advise you on potential problems right from the start. You may be able to save money by not using an architect, but larger projects will go much more smoothly with an experienced pro directing the process.

The essential difference between an architect and an engineer is that architects typically focus more on the aesthetic design of buildings, although not without consideration for the structural integrity of the building. Engineers focus more on the structural, technical, and practical aspects of whether and how an architectural design can be built as drawn. You may need to hire both types of professionals if you’re designing and building a new home.

Universal design is a design concept that states that products, spaces, and general environments are designed to be used by everyone, with an emphasis on accessibility for those with limited mobility or other special needs.

The Van Meter, IA homeowners’ guide to architectural services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Ed Cambro
•
Apr 4, 2026Apr 4, 2026
How Much Does a Floor Plan Cost? [2026 Data]
Floor plans can help you visualize a space and are useful in home construction and design. Learn how much a floor plan costs and what affects the price.
Angi
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does an Architect Cost? [2026 Data]
Wondering how much hiring an architect cost? Discover architect prices, cost factors, and money-saving tips to help you plan your home project with confidence.
Allie Ogletree
•
May 30, 2026May 30, 2026
How Much Does a Landscape Architect Cost? [2026 Data]
Few things elevate your outdoor space like a landscape architect can. Learn about how much a landscape architect costs and what affects your total.
Dan Simms
•
May 2, 2026May 2, 2026
What Is Renaissance-Style Architecture?
Learn about Renaissance-style architecture, including what defines the form and how to incorporate the crucial elements of style and design into your home.
Rachel Hoffman
•
Apr 10, 2026Apr 10, 2026
What Is Gothic-Style Architecture?
Gothic-style architecture features distinctive design flourishes that give this style its dramatic, moody flair. Learn more about its key elements.
Dan Simms
•
May 2, 2026May 2, 2026
Architect vs. Contractor: Which Should You Hire?
Knowing whether to hire an architect vs. a contractor is important when building or remodeling. Learn the differences between the two.