How does one go about adding room to a house?

[Anonymous]

I am interested in adding a room to our house and adding a new doorway in our bedroom (ie rip open the wall and add a door to the yard).

How does one go about this - hire a contractor? Hire an interior designer? Do I need an architect? Who draws out the plans and then tells me what the cost will be.

I am imagining we'll do the work in stages to spread out the cost. I was hoping to add a door, add a new room in the back and possibly a half bath too and re-do the master bath.

Where does one even start?

Thanks in advance for any guidance and help!

[Anonymous]

I would get an architect, esp. if you are adding a bath. Look for someone who has done other work in your neighborhood with similar type homes.