There are many home design service alternatives to choose from.  In fact, the vast majority of homes built each year use drawings prepared by non-architects, however all home construction projects work with plans. Plans may come from a do-it-yourself software program, a plan book, a drafting service or an individual with a drafting background. A minority are developed by an architect. For someone new to the construction process, like most homeowners, it can be difficult to differentiate an architect’s plans from other options. While options may look equal at first glance, once you become more familiar with the alternatives, you’ll be able to detect the subtle distinctions that result in the most optimal product for you.

Becoming familiar with the various home design service options is the first step to figuring out which design service best suits your situation and budget. Below let review the range of options.

Home Design Service Options

1. Prepare the plans yourself

If you possess the structural knowledge and drafting skills needed to generate plans adequate for construction and permitting, prepare the plans yourself. There are several software programs that claim anyone can design a home; in reality, you really do need a fair bit of knowledge and education to accurately tackle all t he elements involved in creating plans for a home, including electrical, drainage, framing, and aesthetic issues. Wrestling with creating your own floor plan however, can be very educational. It also will give you a better appreciation of how much is involved and must be considered.

2. Purchase “plans” from a book

Known as stock plans, these can be purchased in print or digital format. They are affordable and you can access them quickly. The downside is, these plans are available to everyone for purchase, and these homes have been built many times before; this is not a home that will be customized for your needs. These plans will not address issues specific to your site, such as utility placement, drainage, and other items that are necessary for permitting. Stock plans leave a lot to be desired, and you’ll likely require additional help to bring them up to the level necessary to be buildable. Studying multiple plan offerings will help you identify features, styles, and room arrangements you like, and those that you don’t.

3. Hire a designer

A designer, drafting service, home designer, residential designer, or most anyone with the term “designer” in their title can be hired to create home plans. Designers often have specialized experience in a particular area of a home, such as kitchens or bathrooms. A designer will create a customized plan based on what you tell them you would like your contractor to build.

4. Engage an architect

Working with a licensed architect will provide you with customized plans for construction and permitting. An architect is also along for the entire ride; they will define, design, and monitor construction of your home, remaining involved in the project from concept to completion. While working with an architect often requires a larger financial investment, it is often the most appropriate scenario given a specific budget or because of your needs or desire to “get it right.”

Ultimately, choosing from among design options is a balancing act. The best design service option for your home or renovation is the one that’s most appropriate for you – the option that will give you the best design results for your budget.

If you are interested in working with me to design a new home or renovate an older home, give my office a call at 225-924-7450 or head over to KevinHarrisArchitect.com and request a design consultation. Or, to learn more about the process of designing and building a home, you can check out my Amazon #1 Best Seller, The Forever Home: How to work with an architect to design the home of your dreams. A free sample chapter from the book is available for download at DesignYourForeverHome.com.