A Focus on Bespoke Architecture

Perrone Construction is unique in that we are truly a custom home builder, meaning we only build architecturally designed residences specific to the properties on which they reside and no two homes that we have built are alike. Bespoke architecture refers to custom home design that not only meets the aesthetic desires of the owner, but their specific needs and requirements thus improving form, function, and the overall lifestyle of the owner.

It involves creating unique, one-of-a-kind designs that are not based on pre-existing drawings or plans but are tailored to enhance the value of the property by taking full advantage of surrounding views and complementing the landscape. Keep reading to learn more about what questions to ask when hiring an architect.

Acqua Vita, designed by architect Cliff Scholz, CMSA.

Design with a Purpose: The Value of Hiring an Architect

We feel strongly that the beginning of any successful project is to hire an AIA registered architect to translate your vision. Furthermore, we typically help our clients assemble their design team to include a landscape architect and interior designer.

Hiring a landscape architect is another vital aspect of custom home design allowing the residence to become integrated with its surroundings. In Florida, outdoor living is paramount. Therefore, hiring a landscape architect early not only can improve the beauty of the home, but the function, effectively creating a harmonious living environment.

Florida Modernism in Home Construction
The Cascade House, designed by architect John Cooney, Stofft Cooney Architects.
Custom residence inspired by the Cove, Bahamas.
Florida Modernism in Home Construction
Fish Camp, designed by architect Paul Konstant.
Bridgeview rear photo view of custom home
Bridgeview, designed by Smith & Hutton architects.
Custom Home Builders in Sarasota
Dutch West Indies architecture by Stofft Cooney Architects.
Above: Happy Place, designed by John Cooney, Stofft Cooney Architects.
Below: Bastide de Jardin, designed by Cliff Scholz, CMSA.

Making an Informed Decision: What Questions Do I Ask?

Selecting an architect to translate your vision into reality is a big decision. That’s why most people will interview 2-3 architects before making a choice. Our team has worked with some of the most talented architects and design professionals in the country and have had great success working alongside architects no matter what their location. For those who do not have an architect already in mind, we work with our clients to find the right fit for their individual needs and often facilitate guided architect interviews.

We have compiled a list of interview questions based on our 45 years of luxury custom home experience that we hope will provide some insight into selecting the perfect architect for your project. We want to share with you our insider’s perspective that digs a little deeper than just the basics including design process, experience, fees, project management and budget management.

Read an excerpt or download and print our full list of recommendations to take with you, or better yet – reach out to us and we can help you through the process!

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How do you develop a design and what is your design process?

Usually divided into 4 stages of design, but each architect is different so it is important to understand their process: 1) discovery/programming; 2) schematic/conceptual design; 3) design development; 4) construction drawings.

How do include the client in your creative process? How will the architect gather information of your needs, goals, desires?

We find the most successful designs are a result of the architect taking great consideration of your overall lifestyle goals, intended use of the residence, and what is of importance to you not only at this stage in your life but also planning for the future.

What is the approximate timeline for my project?

This is a very important question as it will dictate when you will be able to have a construction ready set of plans to submit for permitting and break ground. You will need to make sure their timeline is appropriate for your expectations and project needs. When you review the proposed timeline, it’s important to understand that meeting this timeline is a team effort. How much time is built in for you to review plans and give feedback or approval?

Once you have selected your architect, we advise requesting a project gantt chart or timeline of milestones/expected deliverables for a smoother project. This is part of our pre-construction project management as we act on our clients’ behalf to help usher the design team through completion of these milestones.

What does the architect see as important considerations, potential challenges and,
more importantly, opportunities for your project?

As a custom waterfront homebuilder, the projects we build reside on some of our area’s most valuable properties and we advise our clients throughout design how they can best capture the opportunities for views, lot orientation advantages, and design that increases the value of your investment.

What experience do you have working in my area?

This question is very important as no geographical conditions or governmental bodies have the same building requirements. Hiring an architect who is familiar with your property location is of the utmost importance to factor in environmental and local government regulations into the design.

Florida Modernism in Home Construction
Rendering of spec home on Siesta Key.
Florida Modernism in Home Construction
Conceptual floor plan for spec home on Siesta Key.

Click here to view some of Perrone Construction’s design collaborations in our gallery of luxury custom homes.