Homeowners embarking on a construction or renovation project are often presented with a choice of who they want leading their design: An Architect, a building designer, or a drafter. Each of these professionals play a critical role, but it can be confusing to determine which one you need for your specific project. In this article, we'll break down the differences between these roles so you can make an informed decision for your new home build, remodel, or addition.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a better understanding of who does what and which professional is the right fit for your project, whether you’re looking for a residential architect in Minneapolis, a building designer for your North Minnesota Lake Home, or a drafter to bring your renovation plans to life.
Architect: The Big Picture
An architect is a licensed professional who has completed rigorous academic and practical training. Architects must earn an accredited degree, work under mentorship of a licensed architect for 5,600 hours, pass 6 comprehensive licensing exams, and participate in continuing education to maintain their credentials on an annual basis.
Residential architects specialize in more than just drawing plans—they are problem-solvers who work with clients to design custom homes that meet both aesthetic desires and practical needs. An architect will think about the overall layout of your home, how spaces flow together, and how the home interacts with the site & environment. They also ensure that your home adheres to local codes, building regulations, and environmental standards.
Why hire an architect?
Tailored, Custom Designs: Architects specialize in creating designs that are unique to you. They don't just design a house—they design your home. An experienced residential architect will learn your vision, lifestyle, and personal preferences, then craft a home reflecting your individual needs and aspirations.
Expertise for Complex Projects: If you’re planning a large-scale custom home or undertaking a significant remodel, an architect’s expertise is invaluable. They handle the complexities that come with unique site conditions, intricate design details, and projects that require more than just standard construction.
Navigation of Local Regulations: Building a home anywhere comes with its own set of local building codes, zoning laws, and design guidelines. While they may be similar, codes different from city to city. What may be allowed in Minneapolis, may not be allowed in Minnetonka. The way Edina calculates maximum building height may be entirely different than how St. Paul does. An architect's familiarity with these local regulations is essential in preventing costly delays and ensuring your project is compliant. They’ll coordinate with city officials and ensure that all necessary permits are obtained, leaving you with fewer headaches as the project progresses.
Creative Problem Solving: Architects are problem solvers by nature. Whether it’s working with a sloped lot, a tight urban space, or specific lifestyle needs, they’ll find ways to maximize both space and functionality. Need more natural light? Want to add energy-efficient systems? Have a challenging site? An architect will provide innovative design solutions to make the most out of your property’s potential, while still aligning with your budget.
Long-term Value: Hiring an architect is an investment not only in design but in the long-term value of your home. Thoughtfully designed homes that are built with quality materials and careful attention to detail tend to age well, both aesthetically and functionally. This can have a positive impact on your home’s resale value in the future, especially in competitive markets like Minneapolis.
Architects are ideal when you want a highly customized home that is both beautiful and functional. They can create spaces that harmonize with their surroundings while meeting your specific needs.
Building Designer: A Streamlined Approach
Building designers are professionals who design homes, but unlike architects, they aren’t required to have formal licensure or meet the same rigorous standards. This doesn’t mean they aren’t skilled or knowledgeable; many building designers have extensive experience and create beautiful homes.
However, building designers typically work on less complex projects and might not handle the intricate details or problem-solving that an architect would. Building designers often work closely with contractors to refine design ideas but usually don’t provide the same level of oversight throughout the construction process.
When should you hire a building designer?
Cost-Effective: Building designers typically charge less than architects, making them a good option for simpler projects like smaller remodels or basic additions where budget is a priority.
Specialized in Homes: Many building designers focus specifically on residential projects, so they are well-versed in creating functional, attractive designs that suit everyday homes.
Quick Turnarounds: For straightforward designs, building designers can usually deliver results faster, making them a good fit if you're looking to get your project started quickly.
Familiar with Codes: While not as extensively trained as architects, building designers are familiar with local building codes and can help ensure your project meets all the necessary regulations.
Focus on Practicality: For standard homes, building designers offer functional designs that keep the project simple, efficient, and within budget.
Less Involvement During Construction: Building designers typically don’t oversee construction, so if you’re working with an experienced contractor, this can keep the process more streamlined.
Building designers offer a budget-friendly option for simpler residential projects, focusing on practicality and efficiency. While they may not provide the detailed oversight or problem-solving of an architect, they can be a great fit for straightforward designs where cost and speed are priorities.
Drafter: Bringing Plans to Life
A drafter, sometimes referred to as a CAD (computer-aided design) technician, typically takes existing designs or concepts and converts them into technical drawings. Drafters are not usually involved in the creative process but instead translate an architect or building designer’s ideas into detailed plans that contractors can follow.
Drafters are especially useful for homeowners who have a clear idea of what they want or are working with a pre-designed plan. However, because they aren’t typically trained in structural or design problem-solving, they aren't ideal for complex projects that need a lot of customization or technical adjustments.
When should you hire a drafter?
Pre-designed plans: If you’ve already purchased plans or have a clear idea of what you want, a drafter may be all you need to create the technical documents needed for construction.
Smaller projects: Drafters are great for smaller home additions or interior renovations where the design work is being done by someone else, and they just need to execute documentation.
Cost-effective option: Drafters are often the most affordable option, as they do not offer the same level of creative input or project management as architects or building designers.
DIYers: If you're tackling a DIY project but need help formalizing your design ideas into technical drawings for permits or contractors, a drafter can help bridge that gap without the cost of an architect or building designer.
If you’re working on a small-scale project or already have a design in mind, a drafter can help you get those ideas ready for the build phase at a lower cost.
"Architects [...] don't just design a house—
they design your home."
Which Professional is Right for Your Project?
Now that you understand the differences between architects, building designers, and drafters, the next question is which one is the right fit for your project. The decision comes down to the complexity, budget, and customization required for your home.
If you’re looking to build a custom home in Minneapolis or tackle a large-scale remodel, a residential architect is likely the best choice. They’ll offer creative input, problem-solving skills, and technical expertise to guide the project from start to finish.
For less complex or more budget-conscious projects, such as a standard home build or a moderate addition, a building designer can help you achieve your goals while keeping costs lower.
And if you’re working with an existing design plan or simply need technical drawings, a drafter can help you bring those plans to life at a lower cost.
Ultimately, each professional brings a different level of service, and the right one depends on your project’s specific needs.
