How Architect Can Make Difference

I am somewhat dismayed, but not surprised, that your article (“The Little Pink House Grows Up,” June 8) did not make a single reference to architects.

I have worked for architects for 15 years on and off. A large part of that experience was involved in residential remodels. I have seen very well done remodels and I have seen the absolute worst. On the bad remodels, there has always been one thing in common: They were not designed by architects.

In a remodel, there are aesthetic issues, structural issues and functional issues that need to be blended together. Merging new construction with existing is a challenge that should not be handed off to some draftsman working for a contractor. There are architects who work for construction companies, but this relationship does not benefit the homeowner if a problem arises.

You might be surprised to find how under-valued the architectural profession has become. It is viewed as an unnecessary evil that can be circumvented. Articles such as yours only continue this perception.

JEFFREY BECK