Hiring a Local Hamptons Architect

December 10, 2020 Nicole Desiree

Once you have decided to hire an architect, the task of finding the right architect follows. There are many "out of town” architects working in the Hamptons right now, but using a local designer can provide many advantages regarding saving on costs and using indigenous constructibility methods. Our climate here with 130+ mph wind restrictions as well as the proper utilization of prevailing breezes and our famous "horizontal rain” near water building sites are just a few issues to be addressed.

Consider environmental impact

The East End geography of Long Island creates varying soil conditions of beach sand, areas of dense grey clay, or high water table issues that can affect foundation design and septic system choices. The selection of the correct indigenous plant material is critical for plant health and sustaining the local environment. Knowledge of residential waste systems that are approved by the Suffolk County Board of Health for environmentally sensitive local areas such as Nitrogen Reducing Septic Systems has to be properly specified and engineered.

Local Village and Town Building Department zoning codes present additional challenges to our clients' intended goals. FEMA, local planning boards, environmental boards, and the NYS DEC all require careful scrutiny to conform and save time through the permitting process by an experienced local professional.

I asked Erika Gubitosi of North Haven Village about the advantage of working with Hamptons local architects. I also asked, what is the number one thing that she wished all architects knew when filing their permits:

Some local architects seem to have a greater knowledge compared to non-local architects, but not all. Local architects seem to have a better understanding of the codes and the steps required for obtaining a building permit. Because local architects work AND live in the Hamptons, they seem to be more cognizant of the codes and expectations of the towns and villages here. It would be helpful for all architects, both local and non-local, to thoroughly read the code and applications prior to applying. A brief meeting with the building inspector prior to submission is also helpful for both parties. Having a local architect is helpful in this case, since he/she can more easily visit the building department and get the answers they need. The biggest mistake that applicants tend to make is not having the required documents, other agency approvals, or necessary information on a survey when they apply. It can potentially cause major delays since the building department will not accept an application unless it is complete. Securing building permits in the Hamptons, I imagine, is different from other parts of Long Island or the country. The towns and villages have unique codes and requirements and pay very close attention, not only to the design, but to the environmental impact of an application.

Erika Gubitosi, North Haven Village

Local architects build teams that fit into the big picture

We have the capability of putting together a TEAM of attorneys, HERS raters, surveyors, structural engineers, and environmental consultants as needed. Working with foreign interior designers, media, computer, lighting and kitchen design consultants are all fine and can be incorporated into the Team. These consultants aren't exposed to the same permitting process and they are guided by the architect who is the "man on the ground" to help them fit into the overall picture.

The General Contractor selection process to build your dream house can be made much more easily as to their experience, quality level, and realistic costing. Working with a local team for material sourcing like plumbing, tile and cabinets makes a difference in not only price, but realistic timing availability of certain products and having a successful installation and continued maintenance servicing. We can observe actual construction as many times a week as necessary as a local firm here and help you with any personal changes economically.

Local Hamptons architects can respond in real time

Finally, while it may seem a simple reason to hire locally, it’s perhaps one of the most important. We are readily available to meet face to face, walk the job site together and even help resource interior selections. It’s hard to replace the personal interaction and trust that builds a great relationship. You should feel comfortable and confident with your architect and architecture team to check in on the project schedule, expenses, and requests. My approach has always been client relationship focused which is supported by my decades of direct experience building in the Hamptons.

Would you like to learn more about the specific challenges and benefits of working with a local architect? I'd love to meet with you.

Do you need help navigating the challenges of building out east? I’d be happy to answer your questions and share some tips from my experience.