About Our Architecture Fees and Services


About Us

Chris Doehrmann Headshot, a Residential Architect in Minneapolis, MN

Our Approach…

Chris Doehrmann Architect Inc. was founded in 1991 with the idea that residential architecture is more about the individual client that the residential architect they hire. Chris personally designs each new home, addition, and renovation, providing the individual service that makes creating a vision for your project fun and exciting.
Designing a home is a collaborative process whose success pivots on communication between owner and architect. Through a series of conversations your dreams will be transformed into reality. Step by step you will see a new vision of your home develop as Chris guides you from concept through construction. Learn more about our process and the architecture services and fees we use to give our clients the best experience possible.

Flexible Architecture Services and Fees

No two clients or projects are alike. To respond to your unique needs, our architecture services and fee structures are flexible: hourly or fixed fee based on your project’s scope and the level of service you need. We can help you determine the level of service that is most appropriate for your project. Design, Builder Set, or Bid Set.

We’ll work initially at an hourly rate or on a fixed-fee basis depending upon your project parameters and service level required. Before you start your project, you will receive a detailed proposal outlining the level of service you have requested and the fees associated with that service level. Many firms base their fees on a percentage of construction cost so if the cost of your project goes up so will their fee. Although our fees are initially based on estimated construction costs, usually 7-12%, once established, your fee is fixed and will not change if the scope of your project and level of service remain the same.

Classic Contemporary Studio Architecture Design Services Image

Design

Design provides you with the assistance you need to define what your project will include, but not the detail required to build it. As your architect, we will help you identify your unique characteristics, priorities, and style, translating them into space, function, and form. Designing a home is an interactive process whose success pivots on communication between owner and architect. Through a series of conversations, using sketches and models, you will see your dreams evolve into a design that exceeds your expectations. Includes: Pre-Design, Site Analysis, Verifying Existing Conditions, Conceptual Design, Preliminary Design, Schematic Design, Color Sketches, and 3D-Computer Modeling

Builder Set

The Builder Set includes all of the Design services listed above but in addition, it offers the basic construction drawings required to obtain a building permit and communicate the design intent to the contractor. This level of detail is greater than what a contractor typically builds from but will require a greater level of coordination with your contractor to determine the details and specifications required to fully define your project. This option also may require your significant involvement during construction to make selections and answer questions from your contractor as they arise. Includes: Design Services, Design Development, Cover Sheet, Site Plan, Floor Plans, Exterior Elevations, and Building Sections.

Builder Set Architecture Services and Fees Blueprint
Bid Set Architecture Services and Fees Blueprint

Bid Set

The Bid Set, in addition to Design and Builder Set services, provides all the details and specifications needed to fully communicate the design and specific construction details to the contractor. This additional detail along with construction observation services can help ensure that your vision becomes a reality. The Bid Set will also allow you to obtain accurate and comparable bids from multiple contractors. If necessary, we can assist you in selecting a reputable builder that is best suited for your type of project. Includes: Design Services, Builder Set Services, Interior Elevations, Construction Details, and Written Specifications.

Construction Observation

Construction Observation is essential to completing the project as you have designed it. By keeping your architect involved during construction you can help ensure that your vision becomes a reality. Chris can recommend reputable builders that are best suited for your type of project and then assist you in the bidding process answering questions and help you to select the right builder for you. During construction you can ask Chris questions as they arise or you can determine in advance the type of assistance best suited for the complexity of your project. Includes at the Owner’s Request: Bidding & Negotiation, Electrical Coordination, Mechanical Coordination, Truss Drawing Review, Window Schedule Review, Cabinet Drawing Review, and Construction Observation

Classic Contemporary Studio Construction Observation Architecture Services and Fees

Design Diversity

Our project portfolio is artistically and economically diverse. At Chris Doehrmann Architect we don’t impose a specific style on our clients. What is important to us is what is important to you. If you are tired of looking at the same old house plans that don’t reflect your tastes give us a call and we can help you achieve a vision for home that is uniquely you. Our goal is to create a home that responds to the way you live and reflects your personal tastes.

Our projects range from small rear entry additions to elegant, expansive homes and everything in between. No matter the size of your project or your construction budget, if you value quality design, we value working with you. While many of our projects are located in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, we have designed lake homes and cabins in northern Minnesota and projects across the region including Iowa and Wisconsin. No matter where you are or where your project is located, we can assist you.

Responding to the Environment

Each project starts with an understanding of the environment in which it will reside. Our goal is to make the additions and renovations that we design look like they have always been there and every new home respond to its unique site. If being environmentally friendly is a priority the best way to go green is to only build what you need.

Developing a design that is effective and efficient is the best way to maximize the outcome while minimizing the potential impact you have on the environment. We strive to utilize energy efficient products balancing performance with cost. Going green is not primarily about the products you use, but rather the design in which you will use them. We have participated in third party programs, which help you make the energy efficiency and sustainability decisions that are right for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why Do I Need An Architect?

Each year when I talk to excited homeowners at home shows I wonder who will be the first to ask me, “Why do I need a residential architect for a home remodeling project or to design my custom home?” More…

2. How Do I Choose an Architect?

When choosing an architect, it’s important to look at their experience, the kind of work they do, and their architecture services and fees. More…

3. Is My Project Too Small For An Architect?

There is a misconception that exists that keeps countless numbers of homeowners from seeking the help they need to change an ordinary addition or renovation project into something extraordinary. More…