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Design and Build

Whether you are planning to build a house, an addition, or a student project, you'll find ideas and basic instructions in the resources listed here. This directory compiled by Jackie Craven includes information about planning, designing, choosing materials, and estimating costs. Also find recommended books and software to help you design and build.
Do You Need an Architect?
You are building a new home. Do you need an architect? Maybe not. If your taste runs toward traditional, you may opt for one of these cost-saving alternatives.
The Building and Remodeling Contract
Before hiring a contractor for your building or remodeling project, all agreements should be put into writing. The written contract should include the following information.
Before You Build
Building a new home begins long before the foundation is poured. Here are the five most important steps you must take to avoid costly mistakes during the construction process.
Building Your New Home
A builder may pour the foundation and raise the roof, but only you can make your new house a home. A seasoned architect offers tips to help you avoid costly and heartbreaking mistakes.
Top Ten Trends in Home Design
Tomorrow's homes are on the drawing board and they are nothing like the places you may recall from your childhood. Watch for these important trends in home design.
House Helpline
What type of windows should you choose? Where should you place the garage? To ask questions and get ideas for your new home, join us in the Architecture Forum at About.com.

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