Top-Rated Architects & Engineers Near You in Surry County, NC

Calvin H Cochran Architect

I started this firm in 1994 after 18 years of working in construction. The decision was motivated by a desire to return to my first passion in life - Architecture. I saw a need for practical, cost effective designs, which would allow working class home owners and businessmen to get the most footage for the money they were spending. here at Calvin Cochran Architect we pride ourselves in the architectural work we produce!

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West Depot Architecture

After receiving my Masters of Architecture from the Savannah College of Art and Design, I spent nine years practicing architecture in the heart of historic Beaufort, South Carolina. In 2009 my wife and I moved back to our home town of Elkin, NC. At this time, I established West Depot Architecture to offer a wide range of architectural consulting services to the Yadkin Valley region of North Carolina and beyond. I focus on sustainable design practices while turning clients’ programs into cohesive, site adap

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Calvin Cochran Architect

When serving you, you benefit from my expansive experience as a former contractor to receive practical and cost effective designs. We would be honored to assist you in your project, whether it be a small remodel or a high rise hotel.

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Teresa S. Hiatt Designs, Inc.

Custom Home Design, Additions & Renovations

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Melanie Diamont Design Consultant
JG Coram Co. Inc.

Architects & Engineers FAQs

Architects & Engineers provide a range of services tailored to both residential and commercial projects. Architects focus on design and aesthetics, often creating blueprints, conducting site analysis, and collaborating with clients to bring their vision to life. Engineers, on the other hand, specialize in structural integrity, systems design (like HVAC, electrical, and plumbing), and compliance with regulatory standards. Common services include:

  • Concept design and detailed drawings
  • Structural assessments and safety analysis
  • Project management and site inspections
  • Assistance with permitting and code compliance

Combining their expertise ensures that both the creative and functional aspects of your project are professionally managed.

The cost of hiring Architects & Engineers varies based on the scope of the project, complexity, and location. Nationally, typical costs include:

  • Architectural services: $50–$250/hour or 5–20% of total project costs.
  • Engineering services: $100–$200/hour or a fixed fee for specific designs, like structural plans.

For residential home designs, you might expect to pay $5,000–$20,000 for architectural blueprints. Engineering assessments, such as structural evaluations, can range between $500–$3,000. Larger or more customized projects typically cost more. Always ask for a detailed estimate before beginning any work.

Yes, both Architects and Engineers typically need to be licensed to work legally in Surry County. Licensing ensures they meet professional standards and comply with state regulations. For Architects, this often includes certification through the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB). Engineers may need licensure as Professional Engineers (PE).

To verify a professional's license in Surry County, visit your state's licensing board or building department website. For reliable information, check NCARB's official website or your local engineering licensing board.

Timelines vary widely depending on the project size and complexity. For smaller residential projects, such as designing a single-family home, initial plans from Architects can take 2–6 weeks. Adding Engineer evaluations (e.g., structural or plumbing) may extend this timeframe by another 2–4 weeks.

For larger or more intricate projects, like custom homes or extensive remodels, the planning stage might take several months. Keep in mind:

  • Permitting and compliance checks in Surry County can add time.
  • Collaboration with other contractors or builders can impact the schedule.

Clear communication and upfront planning are key to minimizing delays.

To ensure you're selecting the right professional for your project, ask:

  • Credentials: Are you licensed and insured in my state?
  • Experience: Do you have experience with projects like mine?
  • References: Can you provide client references or portfolios?
  • Fees: Do you charge hourly rates, fixed fees, or percentages?
  • Timeline: What is your estimated timeline for completion?
  • Communication: How will you keep me updated throughout the process?

These questions help you gauge their expertise, reliability, and compatibility with your vision.

When hiring Architects & Engineers for your home project, watch for signs that may indicate unreliability or lack of expertise:

  • No license: Always check for proper licensing in Surry County.
  • Unclear pricing: Avoid professionals who won’t provide upfront cost estimates.
  • Lack of references: Established professionals should have portfolios or past client reviews.
  • Limited communication: Poor responsiveness or vague answers during initial discussions can lead to frustrations later.

If anything feels off during your vetting process, consider exploring other options to avoid costly mistakes.

Getting an accurate estimate requires providing detailed project information upfront. Here's how to get started:

  1. Define your project scope: Be clear about your goals, preferences, and budget.
  2. Consult multiple professionals: Reach out to 2–3 Architects & Engineers for comparisons.
  3. Request itemized estimates: Ensure costs for design work, structural evaluations, and additional services are outlined.
  4. Discuss potential extras: Ask about fees for revisions, permits, or unexpected changes.

Detailed communication upfront can help you avoid surprises and ensure a smoother process.

Yes, most Architects & Engineers actively assist with permitting and code compliance. Architects typically ensure design plans meet local building requirements, while Engineers handle technical calculations to comply with safety standards such as load-bearing limits, plumbing systems, or electrical codes.

Working with licensed professionals minimizes the risk of delays or rejections during the permitting process and ensures your project adheres to local regulations. Always confirm this support is included in your project agreement.

You should consider hiring an Architect & Engineer early in the renovation process, especially for major structural changes or custom designs. Their expertise ensures:

  • Accurate planning that aligns with your vision
  • Structural safety during construction
  • Compliance with building codes

For smaller-scale renovations (like simple remodels), you might only need one professional. Complex or large projects, however, often require both to integrate aesthetics with functionality. Consulting them upfront can prevent costly adjustments later.

Yes, licensed Architects & Engineers are typically required to carry professional liability insurance, also known as errors and omissions (E&O) coverage. This protects homeowners if mistakes in design or calculations lead to structural issues or additional costs during construction.

Always verify that the professional you hire has adequate coverage. This safeguard ensures you're protected financially in the event of unforeseen challenges, and it reflects the professional's commitment to quality and accountability.

Reviews for Architects & Engineers

A Foundation Fix Without Headaches
We had a major foundation issue threatening our home in Austin. Within hours of my inquiry, I was matched with an engineer who explained the problem clearly and gave us a feasible, budget-friendly solution. By the end of the week, the plan was underway, saving us thousands in potential damage and a ton of stress!
Lila R.
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Blueprinting a Smooth Remodel
I couldn't make sense of the layout I wanted for our Denver home expansion. A local architect stepped in, made my vague ideas come alive on paper, and even helped navigate zoning rules. It saved me weeks of frustration and gave us a design that fits our family perfectly.
James P.
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Dream Home Plans in Record Time
When we decided to build our dream home, finding the right pro felt daunting. This platform connected me to a talented architect who had the first draft ready within days, and it was stunning! We feel confident starting the build and completely avoided the endless back-and-forth of referrals.
Marie L.
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Learn More about Our Contributors

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Maria VierraEditor

Maria Vierra is the lead designer at Vierra Fine Homes, bringing over two decades of experience in high-end residential design and construction. Her expertise and attention to detail ensure every project meets the highest standards of excellence, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal.

Brett Taylor avatar

Brett TaylorAuthor

Brett Taylor is the co-founder of The Builder Market and a visionary entrepreneur in the home services and construction industries. With a passion for innovation, Brett has played a pivotal role in revolutionizing how professionals and homeowners connect and collaborate.

This page was last updated on Jun 17, 2025, 2:05:26 AM