The Comito Column ~ Custom Building Exposed

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Working With Architectural Review Boards

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Tuesday, March 20, 2012

If I’m going to build my new custom home in an established Colorado Springs community or neighborhood, why do I have to submit my plans to an Architectural Review Board?  Why can’t I just build what I want to?  As a design/build firm in The Pikes Peak Region, we are sometimes asked these questions by our clients.  Understanding the thought process behind Architectural Review Boards and what they actually do usually alleviates any concerns the potential homeowners may have. 

 

These boards are set up either by the developer of the community or by the residents themselves to help maintain the aesthetic harmony of the community.  Chances are, if you’re going to buy property in a community, you already like what you see – either the look of the homes, the amenities, or the feel of the neighborhood.  The Boards make sure that it continues to stay that way.  They establish and publish a set of guidelines which gives you the philosophy of the community and the procedures for the new property owners to follow to ensure a smooth process.

 

The Board usually consists of current homeowners, most of whom usually have some kind of background in residential construction, either as architects, home designers, or builders.  Their main task is to protect the property values of the community while encouraging a diversity of design styles and materials.  They are not there to tell you what to build, but to ensure that what you build enhances the environment.  With that in mind, they may offer suggestions on how to tweak your house plans while still accommodating individual tastes and preferences. 

 

The main items that a Board looks for when they review proposed plans are: 

  • A home that is consistent in design and scale within its chosen architectural style;
  • Color and material selections that present a pleasing exterior appearance and color palette with approved building materials; and
  • the diversity of materials within the context of the surrounding area, more specifically the street where the home will be located.

 What follows is a typical experience with an Architectural Review Board: 

  • Final Design Review – You will submit final drawings and all applicable details of the plans, as well as final exterior material and color selections.  Most Boards will require that your home and driveway be staked for their inspection before final approval is given.
  • Landscape Review – At some point in construction, you will submit your landscape plan for review.  It will indicate which plantings you have selected for the site and their locations.
  • Most Boards require the payment of some type of fees.  If a construction deposit is required, it will be returned once construction is complete. 
  • At any time during construction, if the exterior design, materials, or colors change, another submittal will be required for those changes.
  • Just remember that the Architectural Review Board has the best interests of the community in mind when they review your plans - they look at the big picture.  Ultimately, it is for the betterment of your property value as well.

 

If you are interested in obtaining additional information on the custom home building process or any of our Colorado Springs luxury home sites call us at 719.219.5421 or visit us online at Comito Building and Design.

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