How Much Will a Building Designer Cost?
Hiring a building designer for your project can be beneficial in a number of ways. But, before we get there, it's important to realize that a building designer and an architect are not the same thing, and you could easily be forgiven for not knowing the difference. Building designers were once known as "draftsmen", but the name has since changed to reflect their evolving roles and skill sets.
Regardless of this distinction, a draftsman will turn your dream into reality by working as your agent to bring your project from paper drawings to standing structures. Your designer can also make sure that your project meets all building codes and zoning requirements and regulations with precise engineering, spatial relationships, and structural planning.
How Will I Know I Need To Hire a Building Designer?
There are many situations that will require you to hire a building designer. These can include:
- acquiring bank financing
- meeting construction requirements
- meeting local and municipal requirements and obtaining permits
The cost of building designer can be quite an investment, so you should be sure to do your homework beforehand and choose the best designer to handle your specific project needs. You should be sure that you will be able to work closely with your designer over a long period of time. The general rule of thumb is that your designer should share the same enthusiasm that you have for your project.
How Much Will It Cost To Design a Building?
All building designers have their own cost structures and fees can vary considerably according to your specific region and the extent of the particular project. Building designers usually charge a percentage of the overall cost of the project. On average, you can expect to pay in the region of about $1,900. On the higher end, you should be budgeting for around $5,000, but this price tag can even climb higher depending on the numerous factors that can influence your costs. These can include:
- fees and rates of your chosen designer
- the complexity of design
- additions or changes to original plans
Building Designer Cost Breakdown Example
For a very basic service, which includes consultation, site visit, project design and a briefing with other contractors, the cost of a building designer will be in the region of about 5% of the total project. For a basic service on a renovation project of $100,000, expect to spend in the region of about $5,000.
On the other hand, for a full service, which includes coordination of other consultants, landscape design, electrical layout and interior design, you should expect to budget for roughly 7.5% of the total costs. For the same renovation project of $100,000, you should be budgeting for roughly $7,500.
However, it's important to note that, for smaller projects, you may be charged a higher percentage than with larger project. For construction costs of over $500,000, you could be paying anywhere between 4.75% of the overall costs, or about $23,750.
Because no two projects are alike, it's obvious to see that your cost to design a building can vary.
Because of the many considerations there are, it's important to discuss all of the associated costs of designing your building before you commit to or start your project. In general, it's also a good idea to get multiple estimates from local building designers so that you can get a better understanding of pricing trends in your area, not to mention, which building designer will be the best fit for you and your project.
Other Considerations When Hiring a Building Designer
It's important to consider how your building designer will assess his or her fees. Designers may also charge by the hour or even on a per square foot basis. If you feel you may have a lot of changes or additions during your design, a by-the-hour contract may not be in your best interest.
If you already have a firm grasp on what you want your building to look like and don't anticipate any changes or additions to your plans, a per-square-foot contract may be the best fit for you. Some professionals may offer a combination of how they assess their fees, so it's important to make sure you discuss all your options and understand everything before you sign on the dotted line.
How To Get a FREE Estimate For a Local Building Designer
By entering your zip code in the space provided below, you can be connected to building designers in your area who are standing by to offer you a no cost, no-obligation estimate on the cost to design your building.
You will be able to discuss all your options and they will also be able to provide you with some valuable advice. Take advantage of this absolutely, 100% FREE estimate offer today and get some professional assistance to get your project started off on the right foot.
