One of the most common myths of working with an architect on a residential project is that the architect has no regard for the homeowner’s budget. If there is one thing you will learn from your experience at the 2014 Homes by Architects Tour, it is that architects not only respect a client’s budget, they often have ideas to get creative with the design in order to stick to the budget.
Bob Ganser, AIA, and Ben Awes, AIA, of CityDeskStudio, Inc., helped their clients in tour home #2 save money by finishing only the living space the family would need in the next few years, leaving the lower level unfinished for future expansion. They also utilized Ikea cabinets in the kitchen and baths and thermo-mass concrete walls, which require no additional finishing once poured.
Reusing construction materials affords another opportunity for cost-savings during a project. At home #5, TEA2 Architects’ clients chose to re-use their existing kitchen appliances rather than purchase replacements, and repurposed bricks from their demolished chimney in the new front entry staircase addition.
You can hear the architects speak about these projects and more when you attend the Homes by Architects Tour. Architects will be present in each tour home all weekend during the tour.
For more information about the Homes by Architects Tour or to purchase tickets, please visit HomesByArchitects.org. Follow us on Facebook (HBA Tour) and Twitter (@AIAMN #hbatour).
The 2014 Homes By Architects Tour is supported by Marvin Windows and Doors; Midwest Home; Erotas Building Corporation; Mattson Macdonald Young; Marvin Design Gallery by Shaw Stewart; Streeter & Associates; Braaten Creative Woods; Braden Construction; Bunkers & Associates; Cityscape Painting; DiGiacomo Homes & Renovation; Andrew Flesher Interiors; Frost Cabinets; The Great Northern Garage Door Company; JL Rosewood Corporation; John Kraemer & Sons; Landscape Dreams; Otto Painting Design; Topo LLC; TS Building Supply; Warners’ Stellian; Northway Construction; and The Water Doctors.
