car accident and now uses a wheelchair. He needed some adjustments to his home and assumed he’d need an architect. “What he really needed was an interior designer to help him work out how he will best live and function in that space.” Sherry works with an engineer who helps her with any structural elements that are beyond her scope of practice with the NBC. “Many additions and reno vations also require a preliminary review by an engineer to establish the structural ability of the building to have the work done to meet the client’s requirements,” she explains. “This is especially true of 36
S askatoon H O M E
• • • • •
old buildings that do not have structural drawings available and foundation supports are unknown.” Sherry, Tamara and Cara all advise people to
the project you have in mind so your needs become clear. Obviously, the best time to ask questions and do the research is before you start. Some professions
Sherry, Tamara and Cara all advise people to ask specific questions about who does what. Provide detailed information about the project you have in mind so your needs become clear. Obviously, the best time to ask questions and do the research is before you start.
ask specific questions about who does what. Provide detailed information about WI NTE R 2012
require specific education and training, examinations and registration with their
professional organizations before they can claim the title. Others do not. Ask around. “I can’t stress enough how important references are,” insists Sherry. “A draftsman who’s just come out of school might not be the best person to draw up your $600,000 house.” She cites the plight of a couple who found themselves with completed plans that featured a powder room right in between the kitchen and dining room. “That’s a faux pas deluxe!” Sherry says. “You need to pay attention to little alarm bells; if you talk to a ‘designer’ who works on the side, or if they’re not busy and make big promises, you should be leery. There’s