The first option is design-build construction, where you can opt to include 3D renderings. This means you work exclusively with one contractor’s all-inclusive team for your design and construction needs. One point of contact for a streamlined process. The other option is to hire an architect first, then engage a contractor later.
Which makes the most sense for you?
At HTP Builders, we have found the inclusive, design-build method yields superior results for these reasons:
- Less time consuming
- Less costly, and
- Lower-risk approach.
Our goal is to refine the design process by bringing a well-established team of experts together in one place.
We all work toward a single, unified goal while meeting your design needs and controlling spending.
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It will cost you
Exclusively working with an architect can causes other factors to lead to a rise in your final out-of-pocket price. For example, they do not work closely with those who will actually building the project. As a result, they simply cannot see it through the eyes of the builder. This means they cannot foresee or adapt to many of the construction and feasibility issues the builder will encounter. When this occurs, the architect’s plans become inaccurate and incomplete.
In fact, reports indicate over 50% of the plans created per year by architects result in projects that are never built. Since the total project costs are not considered early on, contractor quotations tend to exceed what the homeowner can afford.
Does the architectural approach sound expensive?

You will pay the architect for initial designs, plus revision fees until you are happy with everything. Then, you pay for plan-change costs per the city.
Once approved, you will need to find a contractor. This is where you will have to pay for design changes until you obtain contractor pricing that meets your budget goal. While cumbersome, these steps are typical.
We may not be architects, but we handle all the architectural design work needed to complete any residential plan set.