Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about architectural design in Columbus, OH
It depends on the work. Adding square footage, moving load-bearing walls, or changing your roofline usually requires stamped plans from a licensed architect or engineer, and many jurisdictions won't issue a permit without them. The real risk is hiring down: paying for plans your building department rejects. Ask any firm point-blank whether your specific project needs a licensed stamp before you sign anything.
Most residential projects run through three phases: schematic design (the rough concept), design development (refining materials and systems), and construction documents (the detailed drawings your builder and permit office need). Expect anywhere from a few weeks for a straightforward project to several months for a custom home. Ask for a phase-by-phase timeline up front, and ask what triggers delays so a six-week job doesn't quietly become six months.
This is where surprises live. Some firms deliver drawings and walk away; others manage permit submittal, respond to plan-review comments, and revise as needed. Get the deliverables itemized: floor plans, elevations, structural details, and how many revision rounds are covered before extra fees start.
