Frequently asked questions

An architect is your guide through the process of turning your ideas and needs into a thoughtfully designed, functional building. As architects, we do much more than simply draw plans—we listen, collaborate, and innovate to solve complex design challenges. Our services include understanding your vision, analyzing your site and climate, developing uniquely creative design concepts, preparing detailed construction documents, assisting with permitting, and overseeing construction to ensure your project is built as intended. Throughout the process, we prioritize energy efficiency, healthy materials, and environmentally responsible building techniques, ensuring your home is both beautiful and future ready.

The cost to hire an architect varies depending on the size, complexity, and scope of your project. As a rule of thumb, architectural services typically cost about 12% to 15% of the total construction cost for most residential projects. For smaller, more complex, or custom projects, this percentage can be higher. At BaseCamp, we offer both hourly rates and fixed-fee options; during our initial consultation, we’ll discuss your needs and provide a clear estimate tailored to your project.

Every architect’s process is unique, and timelines can vary widely depending on the firm and project specifics. At BaseCamp Design Workshop, our design process typically takes at least six months from initial concept to final construction documents. Permitting timelines vary based on the municipality where your project is located, and we’ll keep you updated throughout the process to help ensure a smooth experience.

We are happy to recommend trusted contractors for your project, or to collaborate with your preferred builder if you already have someone in mind. Our team works closely with contractors throughout the construction process to ensure your vision is realized and that the project runs smoothly. We strongly suggest involving your contractor early in the design process. Early collaboration between architect and contractor leads to smarter designs, fewer delays, and potential cost savings. By bringing your contractor on board during the design phase, we can address practical construction considerations, improve cost estimates, and create a more efficient and seamless project experience for everyone involved.

We don’t design according to a single style or aesthetic. Instead, every project at BaseCamp Design Workshop is shaped by the unique local context, the specific climate and environment, and—most importantly—the particular needs and desires of our clients. Our goal is to create spaces that are both responsive and meaningful, ensuring your home is perfectly suited to your lifestyle and the place it calls home

At BaseCamp Design Workshop, we meet with you as many times as needed throughout the design process—presenting our ideas, listening to your feedback, and refining the design together. While we bring our expertise in design and construction, it’s your home and your life that will shape how the space is used and enjoyed. What you value most is at the heart of every decision, and your input is essential to creating a home that truly reflects your needs, preferences, and way of living.

At BaseCamp Design Workshop, we are happy to work with any consultants you already have. If you don’t have a team in place, we’re happy to provide recommendations and help you find consultants who are a good fit for your needs and goals. Throughout the process, we’ll coordinate closely with your chosen consultants, facilitate clear communication, and integrate their expertise into the design to ensure a seamless and successful project. Our focus is on supporting you and your vision while maintaining strong, collaborative relationships with all team members.

Bring any ideas, inspirational images, site information, and a list of your priorities and goals. If you have a budget or timeline in mind, please share that as well. Most importantly, we want to get to know you as people—what you value, how you live, and what makes your home special to you. Our designs are deeply rooted in your unique values and lifestyle, so gaining this understanding is essential to creating a space that truly feels like yours

Staying on budget is a top priority for us, but it’s important to know that construction costs are extremely high in today’s market. Here in Portland, Maine, you can expect construction costs in the range of $400-$500 per square foot. It’s also important to remember that prices can vary widely between contractors. We base our designs on cost data from our past projects to help set realistic expectations and guide your decisions. The best way to ensure your project stays within budget is to involve your contractor early in the design process. This allows for accurate cost feedback, value engineering, and proactive adjustments, helping us deliver a design that’s both beautiful and financially achievable.

For simple projects with a small budget, hiring an architect may overstrain your budget, and a reputable contractor may be more practical for both design and construction. However, if you value innovation, high-quality design, and a process centered on your unique needs, an architect can make a real difference—even on smaller projects. At BaseCamp Design Workshop, we guide you through every stage, from visioning to construction, creating homes that truly reflect your lifestyle. If your main goal is only permitting, a contractor may suffice, but for a unique, value-driven home, an architect is invaluable.

At BaseCamp Design Workshop, we provide a variety of visualizations to help you clearly understand your project at every stage. We create detailed 2D drawings—including floor plans and elevations—to accurately show layouts and relationships between spaces. Additionally, we use diagrams to illustrate concepts such as circulation, views, and the connections between different areas of your home. To give you the best sense of how your space will look and feel, we also generate 3D renderings at varying levels of detail. These tools are designed to ensure you have a comprehensive and clear picture of your future home, helping you make informed decisions throughout the design process.

As our name reflects, we treat every project as an exciting journey—starting at BaseCamp and climbing together toward the best possible outcome for your home. We begin by listening deeply to your needs, values, and lifestyle, ensuring that every detail of your project is shaped by what matters most to you. Our approach goes beyond standard design; we champion sustainability, integrating energy efficiency, healthy materials, and resilient solutions into every home. We’re committed to innovation and collaboration, drawing on our expertise to create spaces that are both beautiful and built to last.

By choosing BaseCamp Design Workshop, you’re choosing a partner who will guide you on an adventure—transforming your vision into a thoughtful, sustainable home that truly reflects who you are.