FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

 As a general ballpark, architectural fees in Maui typically range from 5% to 10% of the total construction cost for full-service projects. At Sustainable Architecture Firm (SAF), a Hawaii-licensed architecture firm, we offer flat-fee or hourly agreements depending on the project’s scope and complexity. For example, a $300,000 home addition may have architectural fees ranging from approximately $15,000 to $30,000. Smaller scopes, such as Feasibility Studies or Schematic Design Drawings (which are not intended for permitting or construction) are priced differently. We can also provide construction observation services to help protect the design intent, address questions in the field, and support quality and code compliance throughout construction. Every project is unique, so we provide a tailored fee estimate based on your goals, scope, site conditions, and budget. 

 Under Hawaii Revised Statutes § 464-13, a Hawaii-licensed architect or other appropriately licensed design professional is generally required when a project does not qualify for a limited exemption. This includes one-story residential projects with an estimated construction cost over $180,000, two-story residential projects over $162,000, one-story nonresidential projects over $40,000, and two-story nonresidential projects over $35,000. Licensed design services may also be required regardless of cost when the project uses reinforced concrete or structural-steel framing; requires an ATF (After the Fact) Permit; is located within a Special Management Area, flood hazard area, or special design district; involves a conditional-use permit, variance, code compliance, or other discretionary approval; or is subject to design requirements established by a landowner or homeowners’ association. Because county requirements and project conditions may create additional obligations, the applicable permitting agency should confirm the final requirements for each project. Hawaii Revised Statutes § 464-13 

An architect designs the project by creating drawings, planning the layout, ensuring code compliance, and obtaining permits. A contractor then takes on the role of building the project. Think of the architect as the author of the plan and the contractor as the executor. For most residential and commercial projects in California, you need both a licensed architect and a contractor. The architect's drawings serve as the basis for the contractor's bids and the building department's approvals. Additionally, having a licensed architect in Hawaii means that someone is looking out for your interests, which includes the benefits of construction observation, rather than solely focusing on the construction budget or the city's developmental goals.

Construction observation is a process where your licensed architect in Hawaii makes regular visits to the job site during construction to ensure that the work aligns with the approved drawings and design intent. Unlike construction management, the architect is not responsible for running the job but provides an extra set of eyes to identify potential issues early. Throughout various construction phases, unexpected situations often arise, such as an underground pipe that was unknown or a structural member concealed in a wall designated for demolition. By utilizing an architect to perform construction observation, you can maintain a smooth construction flow, even while processing a Permit Revision for changes discovered during the build. The benefits of construction observation are significant; it helps protect your investment and minimizes the risk of costly mistakes that might otherwise be discovered after the fact.