When it comes to building design, consulting professional architects will not only help you get better results but will also help you save money as well. It’s possible to work on a tight budget and still get an attractive, functional design.

If you need building design services, Pardi Partnership Architects PC in Rochester, NY, can help. These design professionals work on a variety of projects, from residential structures and commercial office buildings to senior living facilities. They also specialize in commercial property development.

Here are some of their best tips for affordable building design:

• Choose Materials Carefully: Some materials may be more expensive at first but will be cost-effective in the future. For instance, spending a little more on quality insulation will be worth it, as it will keep the heating and cooling bills down for years to come.

• Keep the Geometry Simple: Avoid complexities when it comes to geometry. Designs with zigzags and multiple corners may account for high labor costs. The least expensive buildings have the simplest shapes and dimensions. Rectangles and squares are the most affordable to build.

• Expand Upward: The foundation and the roof are the two most expensive parts of a structure. If you want to expand the working or living space, build upward and not outward. Double the floor area by designing two stories. Doing so allows you to save on costly square footage of the roof and foundation.

• Utilize an Open Floor Plan: An open floor design not only makes space feel larger, but it also means fewer walls, fewer materials, and reduced costs. You will also save on electricity later on because it brings in more natural light.

• Prioritize Features: You can easily exceed your budget if you’re going to add design features on a whim. It’s important to include only the features that future residents or employees of the building will find useful. Necessities should always come first.