Hiring a Designer vs. an Architect
Why a Design Professional May Be the Right Choice for You
When it comes to designing and building a structure, many people assume they need to hire an architect. However, there’s another option that can save you both time and money while still delivering high-quality results: working with a design professional. At Draft It Up, I bring years of hands-on experience in both architecture firms and on-site construction to offer my clients a more direct, efficient, and cost-effective approach to building design.
The Architect’s Role: A Costly Middleman
In a traditional architecture firm, the architect often acts as a liaison between the client and the drafter/designer. This means that:
The architect meets with the client to discuss their vision.
Traditionally, the architect then relays this information to the drafter/designer, who creates the actual drawings.
At the end of the process, the architect reviews the final construction drawings before submitting them for approval.
The architect stamps the drawings, taking liability for the project—an expensive step for the client.
While this structure works, it often leads to miscommunication, additional costs, and delays. The extra layer between the client and the drafter can dilute important details, leading to revisions, back-and-forth communication, and increased project costs.
What Makes a Design Professional Different?
As an experienced design professional, I eliminate this middleman. Instead of passing your project down the chain, I am:
The one in the room during meetings, directly listening and communicating with you.
The one creating your construction drawings, ensuring every detail is accurate from the start.
The one meticulously reviewing the final product, maintaining high-quality control without added costs.
This direct involvement allows me to deliver a better product, tailored to your needs, with minimal to no revisions during the permitting process.
Why I Chose to Be a Designer Instead of an Architect
You may wonder why I don’t call myself an architect. The simple answer is: Oregon law prohibits me from doing so without passing my licensing exams. But here’s the thing—I chose not to take these exams for a reason:
Affordability for Clients – By not carrying an architect’s liability stamp, I pass the savings down to you.
Real-World Experience – I believe work experience is more valuable than a test. Years in architecture firms and on construction sites have given me the expertise to handle projects efficiently.
Practical Knowledge – My experience in both the office and the field surpasses that of many newly licensed architects, who may not have encountered real-world construction challenges yet.
Navigating Permitting with Minimal Delays
One of the biggest frustrations in the building process is dealing with city and county comments during permitting. These comments often delay projects because they require additional revisions or changes to the plans.
Because of my deep understanding of the permitting process, I ensure that your construction documents (formerly known as blueprints) are thorough, precise, and meet local code requirements from the start. This results in fewer city comments and faster approvals, saving both time and money.
Passion for Craft: Bringing Your Vision to Life
Beyond the technical side, I truly love what I do.
I geek out at construction sites, taking photos of framing, structural connections, and the many details that bring drawings to life.
I understand that this process may seem overwhelming to you, but that’s why I’m here—to make it simple and take care of the entire process on your behalf.
I will submit your plans to the governing jurisdiction, ensuring everything is handled smoothly and efficiently.
Let’s Work Together
If you’re planning a project and want expert guidance without the high cost of an architect, I’m here to help. Whether you need residential or commercial design, I’ll walk you through the process, handle the permitting, and create high-quality construction documents that set your project up for success.
Let’s connect! I’d be happy to explain the process in more detail and show you how working with a design professional can benefit you. This is what I do, and I love every part of it. Let’s build something great together.
