You’ve invested months (maybe years) putting your dream home on paper. Now it’s time to find someone to build it. Who should you choose? Can an everyday builder do the job? Or does your dream home require (and deserve) someone with more advanced skills and experience?
This article explores the differences between architectural and everyday builders, so you can confidently choose the right builder for your dream home.
Architectural builders specialise in building custom homes with intricate features, innovative structures, and unique architectural elements. They have the expertise, and experience to understand complex architectural plans and bring them to life with precision and finesse.
Everyday builders (also known as volume or production builders) focus on building homes with standard floorplans and features (like you see in most new housing estates). While they may be adept at building homes in quick succession, they often lack the specialised knowledge, craftsmanship, and trade networks needed for more elaborate custom homes.
Reasons Why You May Like To Choose An Architectural Builder For Your Custom Dream Home
Ability To Interpret And Accurately ExecuteComplicated Architectural Plans
A competent everyday builder has no trouble understanding generic house plans because they all look (pretty much) the same. Four bedrooms, two bathrooms, double garage, with the choice of two or three different (but similar) facades.
But when an everyday builder tries to read complicated architectural plans, they often struggle as if reading a whole new language. There are structural elements they have never seen before, intricate features they can’t visualise, and everything tends to be much larger and more detailed than they are used to.
However, an experienced architectural builder approaches architectural plans with a totally different mindset. No pre-conceived ideas. No skimming over details. They have the skills and experience to accurately interpret and execute exactly what the architect has in mind.
Experience With Larger, More Elaborate Structures
The streets of new housing estates are lined with similar, mass-produced homes. Concrete slabs, timber frames and trusses, standard features and finishes. Bread and butter for volume builders.
However, architecturally designed homes are often larger and more sophisticated. The engineering is more technical. The features are more intricate. And the sheer volume of building materials (including concrete, steel, and timber) is far more. An architectural builder has the skills and experience to deal with these complexities.
Skills To Customise Intricate Architectural Features
While volume builders can generally handle small customisations like fixtures, fittings, and finishes, it takes an architectural builder to give you a home that truly reflects your personality and lifestyle.
Whether it’s incorporating cantilever structures that eliminate posts and poles; geometric shapes that add personality and extra function to your floorplan; and wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows that make the most of your natural light, breezes, and views — a good architectural builder can deliver the exact home you’ve always dreamed about.
Supreme Workmanship That Looks Better And Lasts Longer
While volume builders must meet Australian building standards, it’s generally not worth their while to exceed them. That’s why so many mass-produced homes age poorly, with gaps and cracks getting worse over time. Homeowners often comment, “When the defects started to appear, I couldn’t unsee them.”
Architectural builders prioritise craftsmanship and attention to detail, giving you a home that is structurally solid and flawlessly finished. From straight lines and level surfaces, to seamless plaster joints and impeccable joints (with no gaps), architectural builders strive for perfection in every aspect of construction, so your home looks better and lasts longer.
Innovative Planning, Problem Solving, and Execution
While a volume builder will look at architectural plans and say, “It can’t be done,” a good architectural builder will find a way. They embrace new technologies, materials, and design concepts to create homes that are not only visually stunning but also sustainable, energy efficient, and supremely comfortable all year round. And they mix traditional building methods with the latest techniques and processes to ensure your home is finished on time and budget.
How To Choose An Architectural Builder
While many builders claim to be architectural builders, not all have the expertise and experience to deliver. So, before you sign anything, be sure to do proper due diligence.
Ask prospective builders for proof of their experience with architectural homes, including examples of previous work and references from satisfied clients. Take the time to visit completed projects and speak with homeowners to ensure the builder can deliver the design and workmanship you want.
A Free Resource for Building Your Dream Home in Victoria
Regardless of the type of builder you choose, it’s crucial to prioritise clear communication, transparency, and trust to ensure a successful and enjoyable building experience.
If you’re looking to build a one-of-a-kind architectural home that reflects your personality, enhances your lifestyle, and is built with superior craftsmanship, you’ll want to choose an architectural builder.
Not sure if your builder is up to the task?
It’s important to get educated before making a decision, which is why we invite you to download our practical guide to building your custom dream home in Victoria.
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