Check with your state's AIA (American Institute of Architects) and ask
them for a local architect that specializes in renovations in historic
districts and coastal houses. Get a few quotes from architects and
shop around for a good fit. You should definately hire the architect
for the construction part of the project. That is a very good
investment. It is important to make sure the contractor is adhering to
the design, details and doing a good job. The architect is your
advocate. A great design and detailing on paper means nothing when it
is built wrong and is much more expensive to deal with later. Also,
renovations alway lead to surprises during construction. An architect
will be able to work these surprises out. I've had contractors come up
with solutions that are not thought through. An architect has a view
of the big picture.