Apps Vs. Architects
In today’s day and age, almost everyone on this planet turns to the internet for assistance, information, entertainment, ideas and so on and so forth. Even when it comes to designing your house or interior decorating ideas.
Someone recently asked me if Architects and Designers are still important, albeit needed, for a home renovation. Of course, my answer was, hell yes. But this made me think… with Pinterest, Houzz and all the awesome apps out there within our reach (literally by a push of a button), how important are we (Designers and Architects) now?
Image from Unsplash
Many homeowners are wondering how financially practical are Interior Designers or Architects when building their home or even for a simple kitchen renovation (which is not as simple as you think, btw). The construction fees are high enough as it is so why add another chunk there for design services?? There is always the question of how much. I don’t blame them. BUT, there is always the bigger issue of what will look good with what, the colors, the texture, the decorations. Some people love the bragging rights, saying that they didn’t hire anyone and that they actually designed it themselves which is great but does it really look amazing? (insert winking face). You see, Architects, Interior Designers and Decorators studied for years to learn, grasp and understand the elements that make up the entirety of a design. We know what we are doing, it’s all a matter of finding the right designer for you, the perfect fit.
We are here to help. We are here to tell you what looks good, what goes with what, what colors to match with your skin or your hair and most importantly, what design matches with your personality and lifestyle. We are not here to tell our clients that they are wrong, we guide them and make them decide what suits their taste. Apart from the technical side - the drawings, standards, building codes, coordinating with the contractor and bid negotiations, remember that Architectural design services is not just paying big bucks for some hotshot Designer to stamp your house or building, it’s a synthesis of characters, feelings, trends, culture, and everything else in between. While many clients tend to concentrate on what they can see in front of them, professional designers know how to look ahead. For instance, most designers agree that a timeless approach will do much better in the long run compared to a very specific or abstract concept. Designers can foresee the resale value of the place.
Of course, you can still create your own mood boards and ideas from your favorite app or website, your initial concepts will make it easier when discussing what you want with your designer! Treat it as a collaboration. Nonetheless, it is ideal to hire an Architect at the very beginning of a project. It will save you more money in the end. Don’t forget, Designers get trade pricing as well!
Start with a conversation and see how it goes. Building a relationship is key. Remember, your home, your space is as important as your heart. Find that ideal Designer and your home, your life, will be amazing.
