In general, any new build or remodeling project—commercial or residential—that involves moving or removing walls or making any other type of structural changes will require the help of an architect. Even seemingly small remodeling projects can benefit from the expertise of an experienced Long Beach architect.
There may have been a time in California when you could get away with submitting your own drawings or those that your general contractor put together for a building or remodeling project, but with today’s detailed code requirements and the level of scrutiny given to building plans, professionally drawn architectural plans are pretty much a necessity. An experienced architect will know the local codes and how the city planning department tends to interpret them. They will also be able to draw up and submit plans in the manner in which the city is accustomed to seeing them, helping your plans pass through the approval process in a timely manner.
A talented architect will be able to provide other valuable advantages as well. They will ensure that the design of a home or building meets the needs of its occupants through its allocation of space, its flow, and aesthetics. They can take into account things like natural lighting, a special view that should be highlighted, or any special accommodations needed by the specific residents or employees. In addition, an architect can make sure the more technical aspects of your project are handled correctly, such as:
- Federal, state, and municipal code compliance
- Structural engineering
- Electrical, mechanical, and plumbing system design
- Energy efficiency
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance
In addition, your architect can serve as your project manager. Many people assume that once the architectural drawings are completed and approved by the city, their architect’s portion of the project is finished. This may be true in some cases, but in many instances, an architect stays involved from start to finish. An architect can work directly with your general contractor to ensure that your vision is successfully realized.
In short, you should consider using the services of an architect for any project that goes beyond simply changing out the finishes of your home or commercial space. A Long Beach architect can save you time by navigating the complex approval process for you, and they can often save you money by helping you avoid costly mistakes or future problems. But perhaps most importantly, using an architect will almost certainly bring about a more satisfactory end result that meets your needs and that checks off all the items on your wish list.
Contact Grisafe Architecture to see how we can help you with your upcoming project in the Long Beach, California area.
