Software No Substitute for Architects’ Services

I am writing in response to the April 23 “Do-It-Yourselfware” article.

Although the software programs mentioned in the article are useful for a homeowner to visualize their addition and remodeling ideas in three dimensions and even in communicating those ideas to a design professional, they are no substitute for the services of a competent architect.

A talented architect will consider various options to the addition the homeowner may not be aware of, while considering the orientation of the addition and its relation to the site and other buildings. An architect must take a into account building, zoning and energy codes and regulations; soils and seismic issues, and design in terms of space usage and flow, structural systems, building materials, energy usage and construction budget.

In addition to these preliminary design issues, an architect will put together a complete set of construction documents that can be used to obtain the necessary permits, promote accurate bids and construct the project with a minimum of frustration. Once the documents are completed, they will assist the homeowner in obtaining building permits and choosing a qualified, competent contractor for the project, and then protect the homeowner’s interests by observing the construction process.

Yes, these software programs may save money in terms of the homeowner communicating their ideas to an architect or even in their own understanding of the architect’s ideas at the preliminary stage, but they are no substitute for the services provided by an licensed architect.

MARK DiCECCO, AIA, Director, American Institute of Architects, Los Angeles Chapter