Hiring a professional architect to design and build a custom home is an often wished for opportunity, but there are other times that choosing and hiring an architect is not only helpful but a law or regulation. 

Building a new church, school, or large (over 2,500 square foot) building requires you to utilize the skills and knowledge of an architect, and that these building plans have to display that architect’s seal, proving that the architect has been licensed by the state. 

For some buildings, you need to utilize a state licensed architect. They have completed the education and have passed the Architect Registration Examination put forth by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards, and the State Boards of Registration, making them a qualified and necessary addition to your construction team. 

The 5 Times Architectural Designs Are Required

1.    Churches or other places of worship

Because it’s considered a public building, anywhere that members of the community congregate must be designed by an architect. Because local building laws and ordinances change, it’s important to have a local professional on your team. It’s smart to bring an architect on as quickly as possible in the planning stages to help create and solidify design plans that align with congregation needs. 

2.    Any Building over 2500 square feet

If you’re planning a larger space, you must have the guidance and building design from a licensed architect. These structures can be used as offices, restaurants, or medical centers. Hiring an architect early in the planning stages of construction guarantees that you’ll be able to build the exact structure you need while staying within local building codes, which will keep your clients and guests safe. 

3.    Schools or other education buildings

As with a church, these buildings are labeled as public spaces and must adhere to specific standards to be considered safe. A licensed architect will guide you through every step of the construction process, from initial architecture design to finished product, ensuring that your building is as safe and sound as possible. 

4.    Multi-family residences

From duplexes and townhomes to apartments, multi-family residences require a licensed architect to design plans for submittal to the county or city for approval. These plans must sport the architect’s seal, signifying that they adhere to any local ordinances, laws, or regulations set forth. This ensures that every living space is safe for occupants. Keep in mind that many areas also expect certain exterior mandates to be upheld, like facade design or siding material. 

5.    Interior Alterations

If you’re planning to change the main function of an already established and designed-to-code space, you must hire and utilize an architect. These alterations can range from creating a restaurant out of a previous business, or gutting and renovating a space to become lofts or apartments. A licensed architect must oversee any major interior occupation change. 

Architects help you bring your ideas to reality and meet the local laws and requirements.