FAQs

How much does an architect cost?

Depending on your architectural needs, the design fee will vary. Design services are never "apples to apples," so please understand the services and deliverables offered by an architect before making any decisions. For a full-service architecture firm in the Seattle area, the design fee typically ranges from 10% to 25% of the total construction cost of the project. Smaller projects usually fall at the upper end of this range, while larger projects are at the lower end.

How much does a project cost?

The answer to this question varies from week to week. Several variables influence construction costs, including project type, material costs, labor costs, labor availability, local taxes, site complexity, utility requirements, quality expectations, process efficiency, regulatory intervention, and most importantly… project size. We use a cost-per-square-foot metric to estimate construction costs from the beginning to guide future decision-making. Our process is built to understand preliminary cost estimates as soon as possible. Since this is a fluid aspect, let’s discuss your project so we can provide our most up-to-date information..

What services do you provide?

Studio Temperate offers comprehensive design services for custom projects. Our holistic service includes master planning, property/code research, feasibility studies, space planning, programming, design concepts, schematic design, 3D modeling, architectural renderings, landscape design, interior design, kitchen and cabinetry design, lighting design, product specification, material specification, material samples, coordination with all consultants (see below), building permitting with the local jurisdiction, construction documentation, detail drawings, contractor selection, bidding document preparation, site visits, and construction observation.

What consultants are needed?

Depending on the breadth and complexity of the project, we collaborate with a diverse list of design consultants, including As-Built services, Surveyors, Geotechnical Engineers, Structural Engineers, Environmental Engineers and Wetland Specialists, Civil Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Energy Modelers, Envelope Consultants, and A/V Consultants. The cost of these consultants is not included in the architectural fees. Some are mandatory due to permitting requirements, while others are elective. We will help identify the right mix of consultants for your project.

What do I need to get started?

To initiate a project, you should understand the financial viability of pursuing it. Investigate your financing options, the real estate market potential of the project, and current construction costs. We can guide you in the right direction regarding these considerations.

Before an architect commences any work, it's best to conduct a site survey (if needed), as-built drawings (if needed), and a design brief that outlines what you want to accomplish in your project, along with a list of needs and wants. We can assist you in organizing your thoughts and formatting this design brief.

How long does the process take?

The duration depends on the scope and complexity of the project. The primary factors influencing the design process are usually consultant design timelines, permitting processing timelines, and contractor availability windows. A good rule of thumb is to allocate approximately one year for the design phase before breaking ground on your project.

Do you build the project?

It’s a common misunderstanding, but architects do NOT build buildings. Architects are responsible for designing buildings, while professionals with a wholly different set of abilities focus on constructing the project. All monies required to build the project are processed through the Contractor.

Can I build the project myself?

This question arises frequently. To be brief, we have never seen a successfully finished project that was self-built by the owner. Unless you are a professional general contractor, we highly discourage this approach. We understand that project costs can be very high, and finding cost efficiencies is critical to most projects. We can help you understand some of these strategies, but they inevitably still require hiring a qualified builder. We understand the excitement about the prospect of getting your hands dirty. Better options for cost efficiencies: build less, build in phases, save some finish scope for later.

Do you work on projects outside of Seattle?

Yes, and quite often. In rural areas, permitting requirements and code restrictions are less stringent than in Seattle (and other metro areas). There is a negligible learning curve associated with working in a new jurisdiction. We thoroughly investigate code requirements and processes for every project, no matter the location. If we are working in a novel climate, we conduct research to understand climate-specific design strategies. In areas like Seattle, with very specific regulations, you would benefit from hiring a Seattle-based architect.

What is a high-performance building?

This is a method for designing and constructing buildings that are more energy-efficient, durable, and healthier than conventional buildings. Learn more about the benefits and solutions here.

What styles do you use?

This is a complex subject as there is much misunderstanding about the relevance of architectural styles for new construction. We would be happy to have a philosophical discussion with you about our thoughts on this subject, but in general, we design buildings that look and function like they are built in the year they are built. Simultaneously, we love old buildings and enjoy figuring out how to sensitively augment their existing character.

Should I hire an interior designer or landscape architect?

Sure! While we offer these design services, we would love to collaborate with other design professionals to enhance your project. They can provide deeper involvement in those subjects. Our breadth in those areas gets us pretty far, but stops at specifying furniture and picking out plants. Early integration into the design process is ideal!

Are you a licensed architect?

Yes. Alex Hale is a registered architect in the state of Washington.

How do you work with the owner throughout the design process?

We love collaborating with the owners of the project to refine the design and make educated decisions. We view you as a design team member. Ideally, you provide useful and honest feedback on design ideas during design meetings, offer design inspiration from similar projects, ask questions, provide answers, and get as involved as you would like in material/product selections.

Do I need to have a contractor?

We’ve found this process works best if you contact the architect first. We are always happy to work with new contractors that you have an existing relationship with.

Do you help us find a contractor?

Yes! We reach out to multiple contractors once we have a schematic pricing set. We have successful relationships with many builders in the area that are reputable and professional. We prefer a process where we help you find the right builder for your specific project.