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FAQ on Spanish Style Santa Barbara Architecture

Questions

  1. Should I look at more than one firm?
  2. What information should I request from firms?
  3. Why are formal interviews desirable?
  4. On what should I base my decision?
  5. Once I select an Architect, what is the design process?
  6. Is the Architect the only professional I will need?
  7. Will these consultants be paid by me or the Architect?
  8. What are the responsibilities of the Architect?
  9. What do fees cover?
  10. Will the project change over time?
  11. Does Edwards-Pitman take on any client?
  12. Does Edwards-Pitman work on projects only in Santa Barbara?
  13. What is "Santa Barbara" architectural style?

Answers

  1. Should I look at more than one firm?

    Usually, yes. One obvious exception is when you already have a good relationship with an architect and it makes little sense to change.

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  2. What information should I request from firms?

    At a minimum, ask to see projects the firm has designed that are similar in type and size to yours or that have addressed similar issues (for example, siting, functional complexity, or design aspirations). Ask them to indicate how they will approach your project and who will be working on it (including consultants). Ask for the names of other owners you may contact.

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  3. Why are formal interviews desirable?

    An interview addresses one issue that can't be covered in brochures: the chemistry between the owner and the architecture firm. Interviews also allow the owner to learn how each firm plans to approach the project. This can also be accomplished over the phone.

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  4. On what should I base my decision?

    Personal confidence in the architect is paramount. Seek also an appropriate balance among design ability, technical competence, professional service, and cost. Once you've selected the best firm, enter into detailed negotiations regarding services and compensation. The AIA Contract Documents - the industry standard - offer an excellent starting point for contract negotiation.

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  5. Once I select an Architect, what is the design process?

    The design process is typically broken down into phases:

    Pre-Design

    This is the beginning phase where your "program" will be defined. You will decide things like how many rooms, how large the project will be, general materials and "style", etc. The Architect will research all pertinent Codes and other regulations which will affect the project.

    Schematic Design

    In this phase the Architect will begin to design your project with sketches and diagrams.

    Design Development

    Once a basic design has been agreed upon, the Architect will refine it with more detailed drawings, sketches, computer studies and models.

    Construction Documents

    When the design is complete, detailed plans and specifications will be prepared. This is the technical information required to obtain building permits, as well as enable a Contractor to build your project as designed.

    Construction

    Your Architect will visit the project periodically during construction in order to assure that the Contractor is complying with the plans and specifications. The Architect will act as your agent in reviewing the progress of construction, authorizing payments to the Contractor and making any changes as necessary.

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  6. Is the Architect the only professional I will need?

    Depending on the scope and complexity of the project, you will need a variety of other services. Your Architect will determine who will be required and can coordinate the consultants for you. Most Architects will have relationships with other service providers and can make recommendations - see Services page.

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  7. Will these consultants be paid by me or the Architect?

    The consultants are generally paid by you - the owner. Some Architects bundle their services together but Edwards-Pitman usually likes to keep their fees separate.

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  8. What are the responsibilities of the Architect?

    California State Contractual Items:

    • A description of the services to be provided by the architect.
    • A description of any basis of compensation applicable to the contract and method of payment agreed upon by both parties.
    • The name, address, and license number of the architect and the name and address of the client.
    • A description of the procedure that the architect and client will use to accommodate additional services
    • A description of the procedure to be used by either party to terminate the contract.

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  9. What do fees cover?

    These items are listed in the "Contract Letter" (see above). Note that the construction supervision phase of the project is usually billed separately from the design phase.

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  10. Will the project change over time?

    Most likely. Even the simplest of projects are very complex. Each situation is different, including people, needs, site, financing, and regulatory requirements. Many of the owner's needs and expectations come into focus only in the process of design. As the owner and Architect mutually evaluate alternative approaches to the project's design, priorities are clarified and new possibilities emerge. There is no substitute for the complex, time-consuming, and intensive dialogue and inquiry that characterize the design process.

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  11. Does Edwards-Pitman take on any client?

    Edwards-Pitman is as careful about selecting its clients as you will be in selecting your Architect. We believe successful projects come from a positive work experience between our office and our clients. We look forward to the opportunity to work with you! Contact Us Today.

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  12. Does Edwards-Pitman work on projects only in Santa Barbara?

    Most of our work is done in Santa Barbara and Montecito yet we have taken on projects in San Francisco, Ventura, Sun Valley, Idaho, Maui, Hawaii, and Atlanta, Georgia. If you are not local but would like to use our services we may consider taking on your project. Contact us today for a consultation.

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  13. What is "Santa Barbara" architectural style?

    The "Santa Barbara" architectural style is famous around the world. Although distinctly influenced by the architecture of Spain, it's actually a blend of genres, including Spanish, Mediterranean and Moorish/Islamic. Its key features are gleaming white stucco surfaces, the famous red tile roofs, courtyards, and the wrought iron used to ornament windows, light fixtures, staircases, and other accent elements. This aesthetic is largely the work of engineer Bernhard Hoffman. He founded the City Planning Commission and worked with other organizing bodies to enforce building codes and architectural standards at the advent of the 20th century, demanding that all new construction conform to modern safety guidelines. The new style which emerged was a tribute to Santa Barbara's Spanish heritage and the predecessor of the "look" we know today.

    In 1927, Pearl Chase became chair of the Plans and Planting Committee (in which capacity she served until her retirement in the 1970s) and further helped establish and enforce many of the standards that have kept Santa Barbara, in her words, "...a beautiful city, with an architecture in harmony with its historic background and adapted to its distinctive topography, its climate and its delightful location." (content from www.santabarbaraca.com)

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** Most of the text here was taken from www.aia.org - a great resource for clients and Architects alike.
Edwards-Pitman is a member of the American Institute of Architects.