What you need to know before your first call with an architect.

By Mark Noel – Architect, Inc. 

Thinking about remodeling, adding on, or building in the Roaring Fork Valley—from Glenwood Springs to Aspen? You’re not alone. But for many property owners in this region, the biggest obstacle is knowing where to start with pricing.

We hear it all the time: ‘What does it cost to do a remodel up here?’ This blog breaks down realistic area-specific pricing so you can make informed decisions and move forward with confidence.

Area Snapshot: What Homeowners Are Spending

Remodels & Additions

• Average architectural design fee: 10–20% of construction cost

• Typical construction cost: $350–$700 per sq ft

• Common project budgets: $250K–$750K+

🔨 Example: A 600 sq ft primary suite addition in Carbondale may cost $250,000 to $360,000 to build, with $25,000–$50,000 for full-service design.

Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs)

• Design fees: $15K–$40K depending on scope

• Build cost: $400–$700 per sq ft

• Permitting & site work: May add $30K–$60K depending on jurisdiction and access

🏠 Example: A detached ADU in Glenwood Springs might cost $350,000–$500,000 all-in.

Custom New Builds

• Construction budget: $1.2M–$3M+

• Architectural design fee: 8–15% of construction cost

• Design phase duration: 4–8 months

🏔 Example: A $2M custom home near Basalt may involve a $160K–$250K architectural design scope, including site studies and full permit sets.

What Affects Your Price?

• Mountain access – Difficult terrain and site logistics can drive up labor and delivery costs

• Historic overlays – Certain neighborhoods or zones may require design review or material restrictions

• Finish level – Luxury finishes (common in this area) add significant cost

• Seasonal construction windows – Snow and frost can delay builds and increase costs

• Regulatory complexity – Some projects require multiple layers of environmental or fire department review

What You Can Do Now (Without Getting in Over Your Head)

We created our Starter Package specifically for Roaring Fork Valley homeowners who want clarity before diving into a major project. You’ll get:
✔️ An on-site consultation with a licensed architect
✔️ Rough order-of-magnitude pricing using current local data
✔️ Conceptual design sketches tailored to your site
✔️ A realistic roadmap for design, approvals, and permitting

It’s a low-risk way to gain clarity, understand constraints, and make confident next steps.

We Can Help You Plan With Confidence

From Glenwood Springs to Aspen, our team understands the nuances of building in mountain environments. Whether you’re starting small or dreaming big, it begins with a conversation.

👉 Schedule your Starter Package consultation today at mnarchitect.com/contact