The phrase “it’s just a small project” has probably caused more confusion, blown more budgets, and strained more relationships than we’d care to admit. It sounds harmless, maybe even charming - the architectural equivalent of a quick favor. But that phrase carries weight. Because behind every modest addition, bathroom remodel, or garage conversion is the same professional rigor we apply to larger work … just without the benefit of scale. Whether it’s fees that don’t shrink as expected, construction costs that defy logic, or clients caught off guard by the number of decisions they’ll need to make, these projects demand clarity, patience, and experience. So today, we’re talking about what architects need to communicate, anticipate, and prepare for when the work is small but the expectations are not. Welcome to Episode 180: Size Doesn't Matter. [Note: If you are reading this via email, click here to access the on-site audio player] Architectural Fees Don't Scale jump to 3:50 One of the most misunderstood aspects of residential design is how architectural fees are determined. Many clients assume that a smaller project should result in a proportionally smaller fee. But architectural fees don’t scale like that. A 400-square-foot addition still requires site measurements, code research, zoning analysis, (possibly) consultant coordination, and detailed documentation. Whether the project is 400 or 4,000 square feet, many of the baseline efforts remain the same. You still need floor plans, reflected ceiling plans, building sections, wall sections, electrical layouts, and coordination with structural engineers or energy consultants. And while the documentation may be shorter, the care and precision required to make a small project work can sometimes take even more time. For example, a kitchen renovation might involve more detail and coordination per square foot than an entire house. The AIA has published guidance on fee structures in the "Architect's Handbook of Professional Practice," (this is a book that I highly recommend) which notes that project complexity and risk should be used to help determine compensation, not just size. As architects, we must be clear in helping clients understand that fees represent time and expertise, not floor area. If you charge a fixed fee or percentage of construction cost, be sure to explain what that covers and what it doesn’t. Helping clients see the value in pre-design services, permitting assistance, and construction observation can prevent misunderstandings later. Saving the best for last, just because it’s a small project doesn’t mean the liability is small. Professional risk remains, which means the time spent to get it right matters, regardless of scale. the post that I referenced in our discussions was this one ...*the penalty of drawing too much - Excessive or Essential? The Entire Timeline jump to 9:43 Clients often think the timeline for a small project will be quick. And to be fair, the design phase might be shorter than that of a ground-up custom home. But that’s only one piece of the puzzle. Permitting can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the jurisdiction. In some cities, small additions are routed through full plan review just like new homes. And once the project is permitted, the construction timeline is subject to the availability of contractors and materials, site conditions, and even weather. It’s our responsibility to help clients understand the full arc of the process. According to a 2023 survey from Houzz, the average design-to-completion timeline for a kitchen remodel is around 8-12 months, even when the construction itself only takes 2-3. Why the gap? Because there are lags built into the process. Design review boards, HOA approvals, contractor bidding windows, and permit review times all add up. When you add in backorders on appliances or materials, things can shift quickly. That’s why it’s so important to map out the process at the beginning and set realistic milestones. Being transparent about what’s in your control and what isn’t will help keep trust intact when things inevitably shift. Having a clear design schedule, a list of deliverables, and contingency plans for delays is part of being a professional. And the smaller the project, the more noticeable even short delays can be. Finding the Right Contractor is Hard jump to 14:36 For small residential projects, contractor selection isn’t just about qualifications — it’s about willingness. Many reputable general contractors are booked with larger, more profitable jobs and simply won’t entertain small additions or renovations. Others might agree to the work but assign it to their most junior staff, resulting in delays, poor communication, or inconsistent execution. As an architect, you often find yourself acting as a matchmaker, helping the client find someone who is both capable and available. But it’s not always easy. In many cases, the best choice is a smaller GC who special
