We’ve heard many stories about contractors’ complaints that they, or their subcontractors and trades can’t build a project from plans they can’t understand. That costs money. As with good tools, good plans need to be sharp. Greater specificity is always desired: Err on the side of details. Good architects do.

A major focus for those planning a new home or modernizing an existing one is space-planning, including the proportion and layout of rooms. Ceiling heights, for instance: Older homes tend to have smaller rooms than what we like now. They also tend to limit space more rigidly than we prefer with our open Arizona lifestyles. At their best, architects can open up, or plan, the home and the rooms while still maintaining their intimacy and warmth.

The construction industry changes constantly. Your architect should be tech savvy, aware of the many new design tools such as 3-D and virtual reality walk-throughs. And, while building green is still more expensive than not, the returns to you in utility bills savings, long-term value and the consciousness that you’re furthering these commendable goals are extensive.

Working with us, the building team, quality architects are wayfinders, helping you see the “big picture” and unify your space inside and out. Your home should look timeless as though it could have been built yesterday, a decade or more ago or tomorrow. Maybe it’s not the Taj Mahal or Taliesin West, but it’s yours.

Offering four decades of experience in building and renovation, Arizona Structures serves the East Valley, Arcadia, Scottsdale and Paradise Valley and has recently won a 2014 Best of Gilbert Award for General Contractor. This is the fourth of an ongoing series on your home and was assisted by David M. Brown (azwriter.com). Questions? Send them to Tom Monte, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Photo credit: Scott Sandler