Frequently Asked Questions
Green Building and Green Homes, Custom Home Design, Timber Frame Home Design, and Structural Insulated Panels (SIP Panels)
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Why hire an architect for my home design?
As with doctors and lawyers, an architect has successfully completed a series of rigorous exams, years of internship and is a state licensed professional. Architects guide you through the home design and construction process, and are problem solvers, creative visionaries, and the client's advocate.
An architect strives to save you money and works to establish a realistic construction budget. Changes are made to the home design as ideas evolve during the design process, which is substantially less expensive than during construction. The investment made with an architect reduces unforeseen costs and change orders.
Timber frame design, current energy / tax incentives and stringent building codes make the home design process difficult without the expertise of an architect familiar with current industry standards.
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As an architect, do you design only timber frame homes?
Absolutely not. Although we have a specialty in timber frame and structural insulated panel home design, the majority of our projects are conventional residential and light commercial structures integrating sustainable design solutions. Our projects range from additions and small home designs to custom timber frame homes.
What is the first step of a home design or commercial project with Bonin Architects & Associates?
Arrange a site visit, conference call, or personal meeting to discuss your site, home design, and commercial project schedule. Feel free to contact us with questions about a custom home design. See our Architectural Services and Fees for detailed information.
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I would like to work with Bonin Architects & Associates. Do I live close enough for a site visit?
We work with clients from all over the country. If it is not possible for you to visit our office, we can travel to your site. See our Architectural Services and Fees for more information.
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What is green or sustainable design?
As architects, we believe the goal of sustainable or green home design is to eliminate the negative impact of construction on the natural environment, eliminate the consumption of non-renewable resources, minimize construction and fabrication waste, and promote a healthy living environment. Sustainable architectural design addresses site specific criteria, energy consumption, energy sources, material selections, water conservation, indoor air quality and operational / maintenance costs. We incorporate aspects of sustainable design in our home designs and commercial projects to the extent chosen by our clients.
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Should the home design process begin prior to committing to a builder?
Many companies copyright the timber frame or their home designs resulting in the client not being free to competitively bid their project. Most often, these plans are not designed by an architect. Hiring Bonin Architects & Associates for your home design prior to committing to a builder or timber frame manufacturer allows for a price and product comparison and ensures the best return on your investment.
What are SIPs or structural insulated panels?
Structural Insulated Panels, SIPs, or insulated panels, are a smart choice in green or sustainable home design. Structural insulated panels consist of a core of rigid insulation with a layer of sheathing on one or both sides. Common types of insulated panels use expanded polystyrene (EPS), extruded polystyrene (XPS), and urethane insulation. SIPs permit substantially less air infiltration and loss of heat resulting in higher performance compared to conventional construction methods. SIPs are also used independent of a timber frame or hybrid home design, yet the combination of timber frame and insulated panels is not only a smart building choice, it is beautiful as well.
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What exactly is a hybrid home?
A hybrid home often has timber frame structure in selected areas of the house, while others remain solely structural insulated panel construction. A hybrid home design maintains the energy efficiency of SIPs construction, expedites the construction process, and addresses the budget concern of using a timber frame throughout the home.
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How do timber frame and post and beam differ?
Post and beam is a construction framework based on vertical and horizontal timbers, erected in layers with each floor built independently and metal fasteners used in lieu of joinery. The trademark of a timber frame involves the use of mortise and tenon joinery for timber connections. Unique to a timber frame are uninterrupted posts spanning from sill to eaves or roof, diagonal braces (knee braces) and pegged connections. Also, a timber frame is commonly erected in complete walls or cross frames (bents).
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Is an architect or engineer required to stamp the drawings?
Your state or local building officials may require an architect or engineer to stamp your home design. Jeremy is a licensed architect in NH, RI, NY, MA, PA, CT, VT, and ME. (Please inquire as to availability of other states) We also work closely with several engineers who specialize in timber frame and structural insulated panel home design.
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What is the cost of a new home?
Region, site, construction type, project size and finish selections affect cost substantially. When working with an architect, establishing the budget is a key preliminary goal. Without a completed home design, allowances are typically factored into the quote by contractors or timber frame manufacturers, in some instances costing clients thousands of dollars in unexpected change orders or limiting finish or fixture options. Investing in an architect to work with you from project inception to completion guarantees complete drawings for the home design and provides a client advocate throughout the process.
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What is LEED?
A LEED Professional Accreditation distinguishes building professionals or architects with the knowledge and skills to successfully steward the home design certification process. Accredited Professionals have demonstrated a thorough understanding of green building practices and principals and the LEED Rating System. This credential represents the individual's dedication to green building in design and practice. Jeremy Bonin is a LEED accredited architect.
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