15th April 2023
Top architects of Las Terrenas answer your FAQs about construction
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Building a dream house can be an exciting but daunting task, especially if you're doing it in a foreign country. If you're considering building your dream house in the Dominican Republic, it's essential to have a team of experienced architects who can guide you through the process. Las Terrenas, a town located in the northeastern part of the country, has become a popular destination for those who want to build their dream home in the Caribbean.
To help answer some of the most frequently asked questions about building a house in Las Terrenas, we've gathered a group of top architects in the area. In this article, we'll introduce these architects and provide a summary of the building process. We'll also answer some of the most common questions that people have when building their dream home in the Dominican Republic. Whether you're a first-time builder or an experienced developer, this article will provide valuable insights and information to help you achieve your dream home in Las Terrenas.
Table of contents:
II. Meet the Architects
Formamorpha
Architect Juan Pablo Aparicio Oliver is a graduate of UNIBE and has dedicated his early career to working in architecture offices and advertising agencies. He later embarked on his own venture, Formamorpha, a multidisciplinary studio specializing in both Architecture and Graphic Design.
For the past three years, Oliver has been practicing as an architect in the province of Samaná, particularly in Las Terrenas, where he prioritizes responding to the natural context through his designs. He respects the environment and proposes designs that are in line with the materials and tones that are locally available. His approach involves working with pure forms that blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, and he prioritizes creating an architecture that is egoless and in harmony with the realities of the community. Through his work, Oliver aims to contribute to the sustainable development of the region and to promote the beauty of its natural resources.
SCP Arquitectura
The architecture studio is comprised of Argentine architects who have established their presence across different parts of the world. Among the architects is Arch. Pablo Spina, has played a pivotal role in the success of the studio. The journey began as an adventure, but it soon evolved into a thriving reality. With more than two decades of uninterrupted activity in Las Terrenas, the studio has successfully completed a multitude of projects.
Over the years, the studio has honed its expertise in designing buildings that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. With a focus on client satisfaction and attention to detail, the studio has established itself as a trusted partner in the construction industry. Through a combination of innovative design, sustainable materials, and advanced building techniques, the architecture studio has earned a reputation for excellence in the field.
III. The Building Process Summary
Building a house in Las Terrenas involves several steps, beginning with finding a suitable location and selecting an architect. The process typically begins with a consultation between the homeowner and the architect to discuss the desired features and design of the house. The architect will then create a preliminary design and present it to the homeowner for feedback and approval. Once the design is finalized, the architect will create detailed plans and specifications that will be used during the construction process.
The architect plays a crucial role in the building process in Las Terrenas. They are responsible for creating a design that meets the homeowner's needs and desires while also complying with building codes and regulations. The architect will oversee the construction process to ensure that the plans are being followed correctly and that the finished product meets the homeowner's expectations. They also work closely with contractors and other professionals involved in the project to ensure that everything is completed on schedule and within budget.
Before construction can begin, several permits and paperwork must be obtained. These include permits for building, electrical work, plumbing, and any other necessary permits for the specific project. The architect will typically handle the paperwork and ensure that all necessary permits are obtained before construction begins. Additionally, homeowners may need to provide documentation such as a property survey and proof of ownership.
Construction materials commonly used in Las Terrenas include concrete, block, and steel. These materials are chosen for their durability and ability to withstand the harsh Caribbean climate, including strong winds and heavy rain. Natural materials such as wood and stone may also be used for aesthetic purposes. The architect will work with the homeowner to select the appropriate materials for the project, taking into account factors such as budget, climate, and design preferences.
IV. FAQs
Why should I build a house instead of buying an existing one?
Formamorpha - There are two big reasons for this. The first is to create a space according to your needs and those of your family. A space that responds to the natural context and in turn to any possible economic benefit of the house such as short-term rental. The second reason responds to the fact that most of the houses that are still available for sale in Las Terrenas have many years of construction, so they begin to show signs of deterioration in their structures and above all in their basic services such as pipes and so on. Being able to build from the beginning with new technologies and materials according to this climate will always be our highest recommendation.
SCP Arquitectura - These are two distinct options that require careful consideration. Purchasing an existing home means embracing the previous owner's style and attempting to modify it to meet your needs. This may not always be the best approach when searching for your dream home. On the other hand, constructing a house provides the opportunity to create a personalized space that caters to your specific requirements. While it is a challenging task, the outcome is a dwelling that is tailored to your preferences and needs, resulting in optimal resource utilization.
What should I consider before building a home in Las Terrenas?
SCP Arquitectura -
1. Verify that all property documents are ready for construction.
2. Find an architect.
3. Create the project and obtain building permits.
4. Make a budget for the house by builders and analyze the budgets.
5. Choose the builder.
….. and let's start the adventure.
Formamorpha - There are many factors that we must take into consideration, among them we can list;
1. If we plan to buy on a hill, we must take into account its inclination since building on stilts increases the cost of the work
2. If we plan to buy near the beach or on the beach, we must consider the effects of the weather and the type of soil, so we must invest in good foundations and even fill the ground level so that it is above the level that could reach the sea during a hurricane.
3. Verify the density of land use, this can be corroborated by the Ministry of Tourism
4. Take into account that the process to design a house consists of several steps that can take from 6 months to a year. From design to obtaining the corresponding permits.
What is the average cost per square meter for building a house in Las Terrenas?
Formamorpha - The cost varies depending on the terrain, whether it is flat, in the mountains or on the loose swampy ground that requires filling. After considering these factors, we can say that the estimated price per square meter ranges from USD 1,000 onwards depending on the desired finish.
SCP Arquitectura - We could say that between $750 and $1200 US dollars. It depends on the materials and that depends on the architectural project and the criteria of the client and his architect.
How do I choose the right architect for my project?
SCP Arquitectura - Effective communication is crucial in any project, especially when it comes to understanding each other's ideas and concepts beyond language barriers. Building a good rapport with your architect ensures that they fully comprehend your vision and that you get the outcome you desire.
When choosing an architect, one should not only consider the cost of fees. This is because errors can be quite expensive, and they are often difficult to anticipate. It's crucial to find an architect with a good reputation, experience, and a proven track record in delivering quality results. Opting for the cheapest architect could end up costing you more in the long run, and it may compromise the quality of the work. So it's better to choose wisely based on the value the architect brings to the project rather than focusing on the cost alone.
Formamorpha - Requesting portfolios, meeting with the architect, and ensuring that they share your vision for the house are crucial steps in the process. Establishing a good relationship between the client and architect is of utmost importance, as the entire design and construction process can take several months or even years.
What are the building restrictions to build in Las Terrenas?
Formamorpha - The permissible Housing Density of your land is contingent upon its location. It is advisable to refer to the Housing Density table of the Ministry of Tourism to determine the maximum allowable density.
SCP Arquitectura - The Las Terrenas area is subject to various regulations (Mitur 2012), which vary according to the zones and sectors. These regulations specify the maximum land occupation percentages, green areas, allowed maximum construction height, and maximum number of bedrooms for each zone and sector.
How can I ensure that my home is designed to fit the local climate and environment?
SCP Arquitectura - Incorporating your orientation and implantation preferences in your architectural wish list is crucial. A good project should also consider elements of nature such as prevailing winds, sunlight, rain, and more. These requirements should be integrated from the beginning of the project to progress smoothly with the rest of your desired variables.
Formamorpha - As an architect, I must consider various factors, such as the client's needs and the context of the building's location. By studying the breezes, rains, sunlight, shadows, and natural surroundings, we can make informed design decisions.
How do I incorporate sustainable and eco-friendly features into my home?
Formamorpha - Las Terrenas experiences a diverse climate, characterized by intense summers, prolonged rainy seasons that can result in hurricanes, and a few chilly months, particularly at night. As architects, we need to collaborate with these elements in our design. For instance:
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Humidity: The house can be positioned above ground level to prevent humidity from entering it.
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Heat: We can design spaces that have cross ventilation and high ceilings to facilitate heat dissipation.
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Rain: We can harness the rainfall by implementing collection systems to use the water later.
SCP Arquitectura - To ensure an eco-friendly approach, it is essential to discuss these requirements with your architect right from the beginning, both when selecting the land and during the design phase.
How do I stay within my budget while building my dream home?
SCP Arquitectura - A well-developed architectural project is the key to staying within budget, as it enables contractors to accurately assess the total cost of work. When the initial steps are carefully planned, it is unlikely that budgetary issues will arise.
Formamorpha - To prevent unexpected expenses, it is crucial to allocate ample time for planning before starting the construction work. Additionally, purchasing the necessary materials beforehand can prevent price increases during the construction process.
Both architects highlight various important factors that should be considered while building a dream house in Las Terrenas, including choosing between buying an existing house or building a custom one, understanding the regulations and requirements for construction, incorporating eco-friendly features in the design, and staying within the budget by effective planning and material purchasing. The climate and natural elements of the region, such as humidity, heat, and rain, also need to be taken into account while designing and constructing the house.
If you are planning to build your dream house in Las Terrenas, reach out to our experts for expert guidance and assistance. We can help you navigate through the complex process of construction and design, and provide personalized solutions that cater to your needs and preferences.
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