Question 1

What does CH Architects do?

Accepted Answer

CH Architects focuses exclusively on residential architecture. We design thoughtful renovations and extensions of older homes, and new houses in traditional and vernacular styles.

Question 2

Do you have a specialty?

Accepted Answer

We specialize in historic homes, with experience designing renovations of properties dating back to the mid-eighteenth century.

Question 3

What size projects do you work on?

Accepted Answer

Generally speaking, we work on projects with construction budgets of $300,000 and up.

Question 4

Where do you work?

Accepted Answer

We're fortunate to do the majority of our work within a short distance of our office in Hillsborough, NC, but we're always willing to travel for the right project. CH Architects is currently licensed to practice in North Carolina and Virginia and is eligible to be licensed in all 50 states.

Question 5

When can you start on my project?

Accepted Answer

As a one person operation we accept projects on a first come, first served basis. The practice has maintained a backlog of projects since it was established in 2016, so our timeline for availability can vary quite a bit depending on what's in the pipeline. Drop us a line and we can give you a better sense of our current schedule - it's never too early to reach out.

Question 6

Do you have references?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We're proud to have a long list of satisfied clients and we'll happily pass along contact info for serious inquiries.

Question 7

How much does it cost to work with you?

Accepted Answer

Every project is different and design fees are adjusted for each to reflect the complexity and extent of work required. Generally speaking, design fees for renovations average 10 to 12% of construction costs, while new builds typically land between 6 and 10% of construction costs.

Question 8

What's included in your fees?

Accepted Answer

Our fees allow us to usher a project from concept to completion and include: measuring and drafting the plans for the existing home (for renovation work), conceptual design, preparation of detailed construction drawings, builder selection, and construction oversight. We're there throughout the entire project to make sure that the process runs as smoothly as possible and to ensure that the end result is as beautiful as you imagine it.

Question 9

Why is another architect proposing to charge me less?

Accepted Answer

Architects sell one thing: their time - their time in terms of their experience in the profession, and their time to conceptualize and execute a beautiful, functional design. Lower fees equate to less time from your designer, so you can expect a hurried process, drawings that lack detail, and less oversight during construction.

Question 10

Will you draft my floor plan sketch or modify a plan I found online?

Accepted Answer

Generally, no. Our process is geared toward custom work that's tailored to each client's unique needs and we believe that's best achieved by starting from scratch.

Question 11

Will you stamp plans I bought online?

Accepted Answer

No.

Question 12

How is CH Architects different from other architects or designers?

Accepted Answer

We often hear from builders that our drawings are the most detailed they've ever seen - this translates to more accurate estimates, fewer change orders during construction, and predictably good outcomes.

Question 13

What's your dream project?

Accepted Answer

Renovation of an "échoppe" townhouse in Bordeaux, France or a new house on the water in Maine.