why hire an architect?

Because it matters. You can build without an Architect, of course. However, there are many layers and issues an architect will be able to recognize and address that may otherwise be overlooked or not fully addressed. An Architect can help with programming, siting, layout, material choices, permitting, lifecycle cost and sustainability questions, just to name a few. Architects design for humans with long range usability in mind. An Architect can help with tough decisions when the path forward is not clear. Sometimes the hard questions need an informed answer to deliver the most satisfying product. I can help.

what do architects

base their fee upon? 

Architects traditionally collect between 3% to 8% of the project budget. This depends on to what extent the Architect is involved and to how complex the building design is. Some very complex and involved projects can have an Architect's fee at 12% or higher. I consider myself the workingman's Architect and strive very hard to keep my fees affordable and on par with stated expectations. I believe good design can provide a higher quality of living, therefore as many people as possible should have access to that design. I generally bill at an hourly rate down to the quarter hour, with this rate I provide a maximum dollar figure not to exceed and usually this is the best case scenario for the client. If a client prefers one solid number for all services provided that could be supplied as well. Overall I have found my numbers are regularly at the lower end of these percentage scales and I have never exceeded a maximum without revisions directly requested by the client.