Meet the Architect – Robert Carty

TMS Architects‘ Robert Carty is featured in New England Home’s “Meet the Pros”.  Here is Robert’s profile:

YEARS IN ARCHITECTURE 13

WHAT ARE THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECTS OF WORKING IN THE NEW ENGLAND CLIMATE? Coastal homes need special care in detailing certain aspects of the home.

WHAT TRADITIONAL BUILDING FORMS MOST INFLUENCE YOUR WORK? Probably a cross between craftsman style with some contemporary influence.

WHAT IS THE BEST THING ABOUT DESIGNING IN NEW ENGLAND? The appreciation of quality details by the clients and builders.

WHAT ARCHITECTURAL TRENDS DO YOU SEE EMERGING IN THENEXT FIVE TO TEN YEARS? Smaller, well-detailed, high-quality, efficient homes.

MOST RECENT PROJECT? A whole house renovation and exorcism of a 1980s spec home.

Why Should you Work with an Architect?

The architect is the one professional who has the education, training, experience, and vision to guide you through the entire design and construction process, from helping you define what you want to build to helping you define what you want to build to helping you get the most for your construction dollar.

Architects see the big picture. They don’t just design four walls and a roof—they create total environments, interiors and exteriors, that satisfy functional needs and are exciting, dynamic spaces in which to work and live.

Whether you are remodeling, adding on, or building from scratch, the architect can guide the way. Working with contractors and other construction professionals, architects can help you end up with a well-designed project that meets your needs and works with your budget and time frame.

The Architect Solves Problems
Most building projects start with a want or need. “I need more file space in my office.” Or, “We’ve outgrown our house.” But how does that need or want get translated into square feet and three-dimensional space?

That is what architects are trained to do—solve problems in creative ways. With their broad knowledge of design and construction, architects can show you alternatives and options you might never think of on your own.

Need more room for your growing family? An architect can show you how to enlarge your home so you don’t have to move. Not sure how fast your business is going to grow? An architect can design an office that meets your needs today and can be adapted for tomorrow. Have a limited budget? The architect looks for ways to make your project cost effective.

The Architect Can Save You Money
The architect’s services are a wise investment for the money, not an added cost to your project. Why?

Because a well-conceived project can be built more efficiently and economically. Architects plan your project with you. As your ideas evolve, changes can be made on paper—much less expensively than later on when construction is underway. Thorough drawings also make it easier for the contractor to accurately price and build your project.

Because energy efficient buildings can save you money on fuel bills down the road. An architect can design a building to maximize heating from the sun and let in natural light, thus reducing your heating, cooling, and electric bills over time.

Because the architect can work with your budget and help you select the appropriate materials and workmanship at a fair price. Architects develop the drawings and specifications to help you get bids for construction that are based on your requirements.

Because an architect can help you choose materials and finishes that are durable as well as beautiful, saving on frequent maintenance and replacement costs. Architects work to stay abreast of advances in roofing, brick work, floor tiling, paint finishes, etc. Their familiarity with the full range of materials enables them to suggest the appropriate materials for your project.

Because good design sells. A well-designed house has a higher resale value. A well-designed store draws customers. A well-designed work environment attracts employees and increases productivity.

The Architect Can Make Your Life Easier
Let’s face it, building is a long process that is often messy and disruptive, particularly if you are living or working in the space under construction. The architect you hire looks out for your interests and tries to find ways to make that process go smoothly.

If your project requires engineering or other design services, the architect can coordinate this team of experts so you don’t have to. The architect sorts out complex building codes and zoning laws. The architect can help you find qualified construction contractors based on your requirements. The architect visits the construction site to help verify that the project is being built according to plans and specifications.

Source: American Institute of Architects

What Should I ask my Architect?

 The American Institute of Architects recommends the following questions to ask an architectural firm when you are considering them for a project:

• How will the architect approach your project?
• Who from the firm will be handling your project and who will you be dealing with on a day-to-day basis?
• What distinguishes this architect  from others who do projects of this size and character?
• What are the steps the firm takes in the design process?
• What does the architect expect from the client during the design process?
• What is the architect’s experience/track record with the estimating project costs?
• What will the architect show you along the way to explain the project?  Will you see models, drawings or sketches?
• How long does the architect expect the  construction to take?
• Can the architect provide a list of currrent client references?

Have you worked successfully with an architect?  What other questions do you recommend people ask?

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