House doctor's opinion - Letters: keep those cards, letters, and e-mails coming, folks - Letter to the Editor

Residential Architect, April, 2003 by Joseph DeScipio

I could not agree with you more ("Is There a House Doctor in the House?" July 2002, page 11).

I provide a design counseling service for my clients, which consists of an on-site, "round-table," brainstorming meeting billed at $500 per session. I assist owners (or prospective owners) with problem definition, design options, aesthetic recommendations, budgeting, and zoning. I leave them with a freehand sketch of a solution detailed enough in design and scope to discuss with a builder.

I find there is a big market for such a service. People love to talk to architects, and why shouldn't we be paid to do it? The rate of $100-plus per hour is fair and the work is exciting and enjoyable.

Joseph DeScipio, AIA

DeScipio & Associates, Inc.

Elmhurst, Pa.