Cohousing-L Mailing List: Re: architects and developers

[James Kacki (jimkacki]

Karin Landsberg wrote:
>
Any input would be helpful! Also, I am particularly curious
> to find out the reasons groups have chosen to go with local architects 
> and developers or ones who are more familiar with the particulars of 
> creating cohousing.
Karen,
I am writing from the perspective of an architect, not a co-housing 
group, so please take my comments in that light.  I do not have a 
particular opinion for or against local architects, but here is a piece 
of information for you to put into the mix when you are making your 
decision.  Part of an architect's role is to understand all aspects of 
the site and local conditions (physical & non-physical) before 
designing, and then during construction the architect is usually obliged 
by law to inspect construction (every 2 weeks is standard, although this 
varies depending on the project)and often must write and stamp a 
Certification letter to local authorities that the project has been 
constructed as per the stamped approved plans (the plans upon which the 
building permit is based)and as per the Building Code.  You should find 
out right away what your local authorities require in this regard.  An 
out of town architect must then add travel time and costs to his fees. 
Some simple calculations (plane fares, accommodation, hourly rates etc.) 
will show that these costs could become significant.  Sometimes an out 
of town architect will enter a 'joint venture' with a local architect to 
minimize these costs.  But then you are dealing with 2 architects, and 
the questions arise-'which one is legally liable for what aspect of the 
project.  If there is a problem, whose responsibility is it?   If you 
want an ask to a question, who do you ask? etc.
As I said, I'm not a proponent of one approach or the other, but these 
are some things to consider.  Hope it helps a little, and good luck!!
James Kacki



_______________________________________________
Cohousing-L mailing list
Cohousing-L [at] cohousing.org  Unsubscribe  and other info:
http://www.cohousing.org/cohousing-L