Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t know exactly what I want to build?

That’s OK, and we can help you figure that out. We offer a “master planning” package which includes just the pre-design and schematic design phases of our work, giving us the opportunity to work with you to develop and evaluate some alternative schemes to help decide the path forward. Once we arrive at a scheme you’d like to proceed with, we can finish design development and construction document phases under a separate contract.

How long does the process take?

Well, that depends on a lot of factors, including your project’s complexity and our current project workload. In general, we advise prospective clients that they should be in contact with us about two seasons ahead of when they’d like to begin construction. For example, clients interested in starting construction in the spring should be reaching out to begin working with us on designs in the fall prior.

Who do I call first . . . an architect or a contractor, and why?

Almost always, an architect. There are a few reasons for this, and it’s not just because we’re architects that we recommend this course:

Firstly, architects are the best versed in design; it’s what we are trained to do through years of rigorous schooling and most likely many more years of professional practice. Through the design process, we are knowledgeable in and take into account issues of zoning, feasibility of ideas, structural considerations, a client’s wish list and program, construction techniques and materials, and intangible factors such as natural lighting, siting and the overall aesthetics of a building, to name a few. Contractors, on the other hand, are skilled at building for sure, but are generally not trained to respond to these complexities. In very general terms, an architect and a contractor have a very similar relationship to a medical doctor and a pharmacist — an architect will come up with an overall plan and prescription (i.e. drawings), if you will, and the contractor’s role is to carry out that plan.

Secondly, if you try to start with a contractor, most, if not all, will ask you to begin working with an architect soon after you begin a conversation. Having a plan for your project documented on paper gives your contractor something specific to respond to, and more clearly identifies your project intent. Without something in writing to refer to, conversations often go in circles, and neither side can really be sure if the other completely understands what the project is all about. Ambiguity isn’t helpful in matters of construction, and it’s not a great place to start the conversation with a contractor.

And lastly, obtaining a building permit for your project in New York State will almost certainly require involvement by a licensed design professional, so it’s best to start with an architect early in the process. In neighboring states where we are also licensed, requirements for construction permitting are similar.

What happens during construction? Do you remain involved?

By the time a project moves into construction, the bulk of our work has already been completed - the design is established, and the details regarding how to build it are researched and documented. Our role during construction is to make sure that what we spent much time discussing, researching and designing with our clients actually gets built the way that we collectively envisioned. In legal terms, we remain involved during construction to “ensure construction is progressing in accordance with the contract documents.” We do this by performing periodic site visits, particularly as construction milestones are completed (i.e. foundation, framing, insulation, etc.). If you’re seeking more than periodic involvement during construction, we can also be hired to take on a more active role.

Do you work with specific contractors?

No, you are free to work with whomever you choose, as long as they are qualified and capable to build your project.

Can you recommend contractors?

Yes, we have established relationships with some wonderful local contractors in our area, and are happy to connect you with them for your consideration at the appropriate time.

Where do you perform your work?

We are licensed architects in our home state of New York, as well as neighboring New Jersey and Connecticut. We’ve happily been serving the tri-state region and have completed projects in these states since our firm was founded in 2011.

Do you have a minimum construction budget?

Yes, we are currently accepting projects with a minimum construction budget of $250,000.

What if I need to build my project in phases?

Of course, that can be considered as well. In our “master planning” package, we are experts at coming up with many possibilities to solve your needs, and then help you evaluate which portions of the work make sense to build first, second, etc. Phasing the construction of a project is part of the overall planning of a site, and something we’ve helped many, many clients with over the years. Plus, we love welcoming many of our clients back when they are ready for future phases of their work!

I understand that you’ll be responsible for a building’s exterior, but will you help me with the interior?

As architects, we are inherently involved in the building as a whole, as it’s our belief that the entire product needs to work coherently. We are often involved in the design and selection of any fixed building elements that a contractor would typically install, including built-in millwork, fireplaces, stair railings, mouldings, light fixtures, etc.

Do you also provide interior design services?

No, we are not interior designers. If you need help with interior design selections, which might include removable items such as furniture, window treatments, carpeting, art work, etc., we can coordinate our work with someone you bring on board, or can recommend a few designers for your consideration. That said, we are always available to give input and opinions on your selections, and can make some basic suggestions to get you going in the right direction.

Why ROAM? What does it mean?

Well, when we were coming up with names for our business, we wanted something unique that included the both of us in some way.

ROberto + AMy = ROAM. It's also a nod to Roberto's Italian heritage (Rome, the city). Bigger than the sum of it's parts. There, now you have it!