Residential architects design places for people to live, ranging from large apartment buildings to single-family dwellings. There are some concerns that are singular to the residential architecture field, and a residential architect will almost always find their skills in high demand. Some of the world's most well-known architects are most famous for their residential work, such as Frank Lloyd Wright, whose works are still highly prized decades after they were built.
First and foremost, residential architects are focused on building and designing homes that are both safe and functional. They must follow local building codes, while working with their clients to build homes that suit their expectations. That can be tricky, because no two clients have the same set of homebuilding requirements.
Residential architecture also involves a certain level of artistry; an architect that has passion for their work loves to design homes that are a good fit for the environment. A residential architect's clients may also have special requests, such as making the home look reminiscent of those from a bygone era. People want homes that are inviting, and residential architects are there to meet the demand.
Quite a few residential architects concentrate on custom builds, working one-on-one with a client to build a unique house. Others draft more generic plans that can see widespread use by builders, or they draw up larger projects such as townhouses, developments or apartment complexes. Some residential architects focus on environmentally-friendly design, and their job can also deal with the remodeling and restoration of existing dwellings. Each segment of the residential architecture field requires a different skill set.
Residential architects are skilled in taking the contractor's building plans and refining them in order to best use the space provided. They are also adept at personalizing that basic home plan to fit the client's needs and lifestyle, and they stay up to date on the latest products and homebuilding trends. Residential architects know the questions to ask their clients, and with the information they get, they can properly place appliances, doors, windows and electrical outlets. It is not essential that a residential architect be used for home renovations, but they can bring more artistic skill to the project, and are much more proficient at incorporating the customer's desires into the project.
Residential architecture students usually get their start in a general architecture program, eventually refining their field of study to focus on residential buildings. Training includes courses on the art and history of architecture, along with drafting mechanics, working with both contractors and engineers, and client negotiations. A good residential architect can garner a high price for their work.
When selecting a residential architect, it is vital that you examine their credentials, certifications, training and education. Many states don't require certification for residential architects, but there are those that are accredited. Before signing a contract, meet with the architect a few times, and be sure to check their references. The best measure of a good residential architect is a long list of satisfied clients.