For as long as there have been houses to build or renovate this question has always come up.  Why hire a designer when you can get pre-made house plans?  Like any trained professional, a designer brings to a project a set of skills that have been acquired over years of education and practice.  A designer brings a project into focus, illuminating the path between constraints, and highlighting the opportunities within. They can look at the unique needs fo your construction project and ensure you are successful in achieving all your objectives. Below are 6 reasons to hire a designer for your home project.

1. Mistakes cost time and money

Hiring and allowing a designer to space plan, create and problem solve, mitigates the probability that costly problems will occur.  They understand that what is planned and drawn on your home plans need to meet code, safety, environmental, maintenance and structural requirements.  A designer speaks the language of your tradespeople, and has the experience to avoid the gotchas that can derail projects. If you take a DIY approach, anticipate extra delays, unexpected costs and lengthy frustrations.

2. Space planning and thoughtful design is important

Although designers are trained to do much more than just plan for spaces, it's important not to discount the impact a thoughtfully designed floorplan can have.  Many people don't realize how psychologically linked we are to our homes.  How we want to experience and use our homes are based on myriad details.  A designer is able to tap into your wants and desired living experiences. They can implement practical planning for spaces that can expand, contract, and evolve over time.

3. Creating beauty feels good

A designer is programmed to create beauty in the built environment that is sensitive to proportions, balance, rhythm and composition.  Design often gets entangled with style and style is precarious.  Great design considers the shelf-life of an idea and strives to transcend beyond what is current and into timeless appeal.  A designer helps you discover what aesthetic risks you are comfortable with, and is trained to explore expressions that will enhance the way you experience your home.  This allows you to emotionally connect with your surroundings in a meaningful way.

4. Building codes and city regulations can be a nightmare

Many prospective clients don't initially realize that their municipality can sometimes stand between them and their dream home. City regulations can be strict and if a homeowner has little experience or knowledge of their local regulations, they may experience significant delays when submitting design drawings.  Naturally, a designer is able to navigate these rules, as they know who needs to approve your project and how to get it approved for your jurisdiction. Building codes are also always changing as are the various materials and assemblies allowed, but a dedicated professional is always up to date on the requirements and constraints in your municipality.

5. Not all materials or products are created equal

A designer will know which particular materials and products are appropriate to use and when.  Selections by a designer consider attributes such as content, origin, aesthetics, life cycle costs, installation ease, finishing options, maintenance and performance.  Environmental conditions like humidity, light and acoustics can also play a part in the decision process.  Designers often have access to new products and materials, and ones that may not be readily available to the public.  With a purchasing network at their fingertips, a designer can shop, compare and specify solutions far more expertly and efficiently.

‍

6. They have a wealth of knowledge and resources

If you are sick, going to the doctor or taking your car to a specialized mechanic ensures your needs are met with the right skills, tools and knowledge. A designer does that same thing for your home, combining years of experience and industry connections to help you get the most out of your project. Maybe it's knowing the right tradespeople to hire or it's a new product or service that will take your home project to the next level.

‍

Are you ready to start your project? Hire a designer and start your custom home build today. Connect with one of Novell Design Build's designers here.