What is the value of what we do?
🏆 As Architects, we aren't selling our *time,* we're selling our *expertise.* It's not about how long a single task takes us, but rather, it's about how long it took us to develop the expertise to be able to do it quickly. How long did it take me to make this concept sketch? Maybe 10 minutes.
But how long did it take me to develop the knowledge that's embedded in this sketch? A lifetime in and around the building trades, 6 years of school, 10 years of being a professor, 4 years of general contracting, 10 years of architectural practice, 7 exams to get my license, and so on. Why is that upper window that size? To take existing framing into account, to utilize a standard window size, and to be sure to avoid the platform of the second floor beyond. Why is that door located where it is? To align with the stair on the inside without running into the landing, to meet code related to access and egress, and to leave room for structural framing. Why is there an elevated deck at the front? Because decks are cool, because it navigates a thorny grading issue, because it allows a much better framing-to-foundation detail at the sill plate, because it prevents water infiltration.
Moral of the story? It may be a quick sketch, but it took years to do. ❤️🛠️ - Marilyn
PS This project is a challenging little carriage house renovation in Somerville we're working on - stay tuned!