You're starting to remodel, but are not sure whether to hire an architect. Can the contractor provide the design skills you need? Is the project too small to warrant the extra fee?

Consider an architect if you are:

Making changes to the overall style, design or square footage of the house. If you are adding a second floor that will change a 1950s ranch into a colonial, you'll want to make sure the spaces blend together.

Gutting and renovating part of the house or putting on an addition. How will the spaces flow together? With an addition, how will the space tie into the landscaping and outdoor terrain.

Changes to the roof line or window configuration. An architect can help blend the changes into the overall style of the house. Ideally, you want any remodeling projects to look like part of the original house.

Among the services an architect will provide are:

• floor plan design
• product specifications
• assistance with zoning issues
• guidance on structural elements that will impact the design

Some contractors have a good eye for design, but their focus will be on the construction end of the project rather than the design. Those contractors might be fine for designing small jobs or those that do not involve major changes to the floor plan.

Also, some contractors work as "design/build" firms and have architects on staff.