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Updated June 30, 2022 at 6:06pm
Architect Cost
Architect cost is roughly $100 to $130 per hour depending on the complexity of your project. Smaller projects, such as designing a smaller remodel or home addition, are typically more affordable than complex projects (think full home remodeling or new construction homes). The most expensive projects often involve lots of customization and highly decorative designs.
Architect Fees
Architect fees are roughly 5% to 12% of the total construction cost. As a general rule, as the cost of the project increases, the percentage taken by the architect decreases. For this reason, commercial architects may charge a lower percentage than residential architects.
Architect fees based on the cost of construction:
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Architect fees for a <$100,000 cost of construction: 12%.
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Architect fees for a $100,000 to $300,000 cost of construction: 9% to 11%.
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Architect fees for a $300,000 to $500,000 cost of construction: 8.8% to 9.9%.
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Architect fees for a $500,000 to $1,000,000 cost of construction: 8.3% to 9.7%.
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Architect fees for a $1,000,000 to $2,000,000 cost of construction: 7.9% to 9.2%.
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Architect fees for a >$2,000,000 cost of construction: 5.5% to 8.8%.
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These estimates are rounded. They do not include materials or the cost for the actual construction or renovations to your home or business. The upper end of these ranges include complex projects and expensive geographic locations.
Architect Cost Considerations
There are many things to consider when you are planning to hire an architect. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Methods Used to Prepare Architect Fees Estimates
Design projects vary greatly based on personal tastes and architectural styles. A “per hour” or “percent of total construction cost” are the two most common pricing methodologies. The architect will either determine the total estimated cost of construction or an estimated number of hours needed to complete the job. If your project is structurally complicated or architecturally complex, you can expect architect fees to be higher. If you are interested finding out how much it will cost to hire an architect in your area, Request a Price Quote.
Reasons for Architect Plans Cost Variances
Architects use a combination of methods to evaluate and price projects. They take several factors into consideration that impact the cost of the project, including:
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Complexity of Project. The complexity of the project is the primary cost consideration. More complex projects will often be more expensive than simpler, straightforward jobs. For instance, re-designing the layout of one room is going to be easier than designing a new home from scratch.
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Cost of construction. There are several items that may impact the total construction costs, such as the quality of materials and the scope of work required. With smaller jobs, the architect’s fee may be based on a larger percentage of the total construction cost. With larger jobs, this percentage may be discounted to account for the higher base construction costs.
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Condition of land. If the land intended for the project is difficult to build on or requires additional site preparation, the cost may increase due to the complexity of the project increasing.
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Materials. The architect may offer the option to create additional designs or models for the project, as well as obtain samples of construction materials. The cost of the materials needed for these additional services may not be included in the estimates given here.
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Geography. If you are in a high cost area or in an area that is difficult to reach (more travel time), then costs will generally be higher.
Questions to Ask Your Architect
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Does the architect have appropriate licensing?
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Does the architect have insurance (including workers compensation)?
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Does the architectural project require a permit? If so, will they obtain it on your behalf?
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How quickly can the designs be completed?
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What style of architecture do you design most often? What style are you best at?
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What challenges or obstacles can you foresee occurring during this project?
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Do they offer a military or senior citizen discount?
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If you need help finding a local architecture firm, get matched and get a quote.
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