How to Choose an Architect for a Timber Frame Home

You've finished the initial planning for your timber frame home and now you're ready to find an architect to design and draw the plans. Many timber framing companies have in-house architects or a number of floor plans, while others recommend outside architects to their clients. Choosing an architect to design your timber frame home can make a big difference in how happy you are with the home once completed.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Look at the list of architects on the Lancaster County Timber Frames webpage (see Resources). The list gives the names, locations and phone numbers of architects who have worked with the LCTF, often on more than one timber framing project. Most of them are on the East Coast.

2. Go to the Log & Timber Homes website (see Resources), open its business directory and look under "Timber Home Producers" and "Timber Home Builders & Dealers." Use the map to find timber framing companies near you and call them to ask if they have an in-house architect, or if not, if they can recommend an architect in your area.

3. Visit the American Institute of Architects home page to locate an architect by putting in your zip code and the type of building and service you need (see Resources).

4. List several potential timber frame architects from the above sources you would like to learn more about.

5. See several examples of the architects' timber frame homes, preferably in person, but if that isn't possible, see photographs of timber frame homes the architect has drawn.

6. Request a list of the architect's references and ask the references if the architect delivers services on time and within a given budget. Find out how responsive the architect is to the client's needs.

7. Get a payment schedule so you can budget accordingly. Some architectural companies want a small deposit. If the architect requires a deposit, ask what it covers. Secure a quote for how long it will take to get complete plans.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask your architect to work directly with a timber framing company early on, to prevent duplicating services and make sure timber framing details are part of your plans from the beginning.
• Make sure the architect guarantees to meet or exceed relevant building and energy codes, or you may end up with a home that's not safe.

Resources

• Lancaster County Timber Frames
• Log & Timber Homes website
• Architect Finder from the American Institute of Architects

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on 4/30/2009 The Timber Frame Business Council is a non-profit business association with members all across North America. A great resource for timber frame companies, suppliers, engineers, designers and architects.