H. Stephen Jackson / Architect
About
Creative, but practical design in most any style. Very personal service...not a plans factory. Thoroughly detailed plans. See www.sketch-architect.com. I often communicate ideas with hand sketches, but soon focus on computer drawings.
I have natural ability and I am very grateful for that. I've studied and worked hard to develop my skills...I most definitely enjoy designing homes.
Highlights
No reviews (yet)
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
Every client, every project is different. I recognize these differences and act accordingly. I always say "You have to know the questions to find the answers." I also say "It's very complicated, creating something simple." I first open my mind to hear what clients have to say...where they are certain and where they are not, about what they want. Typically, early on, I offer alternatives when I see more than one solution, yet sometimes I'm certain one idea is best and that's all I present. I love to "hit the nail on the head", but designs usually evolve, changing a bit over time as the priorities become clearer.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
I learned a lot aobut design and drafting from my parents in high school, as well as drafting classes and shop. I spent 6 years in college and graduated with High Honors in 1975...worked my way through school in Architects' offices. Then I served 3 years of apprenticeship and passed all my exams to be registered as an Architect in Texas in 1978. I went on to become licensed in California and Nevada. I have a great deal of experience in many building types and in many different circumstances...especially in design, my strongest talent.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your services? If so, please share the details here.
$60/hour plain and simple...in pre-paid 40 hour blocks. No set fees. Like I said every client, every project is different. Having a price per square foot is like saying every Client is the same. the more you ask for the more it costs. Changing your mind (which is normal) costs you, not me. At my age and experience level, I do not run up a bill with people and live the waiting to be paid lifestyle. Those years are behind me.
How did you get started in this business?
Worked my way through college...design, drafting and I also was very capable at perspective rendering, adopting the multi-point perspective method popularized by Frank Lloyd Wright.
What types of customers have you worked with?
I'm happy to show portfolio items and discuss similar scenarios to the ones presented ot me by prospective Clients.
Describe a recent project you are fond of.
Actually, since my return to Texas, designing a home for my parents. The budget was tight, but the resulting home is fantastic and we get a lot of compliments, especially when people see the interior.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a pro in your area of expertise?
Watch out for contractors who try to tell you he or she can save you money by not having detailed plans or worse yet, who claim they can save you money by not hiring the Architect to observe construction and claiming they can save you money by not following the plans. Frankly, watch out for Contractors claiming religious righteousness..faithful people do not need to say so, you see their honesty in their actions, not their words.
What questions should customers think through before talking to pros about their needs?
Figure out what your budget truly is and let me know exactly...it's foolish to hide this or lie to me. Please don't complain when half way through the design process I want you to pay for an estimator. Like a doctor, I need tests performed to solve your problem.