Congratulations! You’re on your way to designing your new home or business. Putting together a team that meets your needs is essential, and an architect is an important part of that team. I’ve put together some key considerations to remember when it comes time to hire an architect.
If you’re unsure about hiring an architect, check out this article: Should I Hire an Architect?
Define your project needs beforehand
Before meeting with potential architects, take the time to clarify your project requirements, objectives, spatial needs, and budget constraints. Write these things down so they can be referred to throughout the design process. Think about your lifestyle preferences, functional needs, and any specific design elements you’d like to incorporate. Define your “must-haves” vs your “want-to-haves”.
Establish a timeline
Establish a clear timeline for the project, including key milestones and deadlines for design development, permitting, and construction. Discuss the architect’s availability and ability to adhere to the agreed-upon timeline. Also, discuss how major changes during design may affect the schedule. Keep in mind that an architect won’t be able to define the length of construction, only the contractor can do that.
Review their portfolio
When reviewing an architect’s portfolio, pay attention to the variety of projects they have worked on and the quality of their designs. Look for examples that resonate with your aesthetic preferences and project scope. Discuss with the architect if they have a strong preference for a specific style or if they are happy to incorporate your preferences. Who knows, you may even be invited to visit one of their projects!
Ask for references
Ask for, and reach out to, references provided by the architect. This should include past clients as well as contractors who have collaborated with them. Ask specific questions about their experience working with the architect, the quality of communication, and the outcome of the project.
Schedule an interview or consultation
Schedule interviews with prospective architects to discuss your project goals, timeline, and budget. Ask about their experience working on similar projects, their design process, and how they approach collaboration with clients. Ask about the services they provide and what services you’re interested in.
Evaluate compatibility
Consider the personal rapport and compatibility between you and the architect. Building a successful working relationship requires open communication, mutual trust, and shared vision. Choose an architect who listens attentively to your needs, communicates effectively, and demonstrates enthusiasm for your project.
Define the deliverables
Clearly define your expectations regarding deliverables from the architect, such as architectural drawings, construction documents, 3D renderings, and project management services. Ensure that these align with your project goals and budget. It’s often as helpful to define what services are not included as much as it is to define which ones are.
Discuss Fees and Contracts
Once there is an understanding of deliverables, inquire about the architect’s fee structure. Discuss how fees are calculated, whether it’s a cost per square foot, a percentage of the total project cost, a fixed fee, or hourly rates. Review the architect’s standard contract terms, including the scope of services, additional services, payment schedule, and responsibilities of both parties. Make sure it’s clear what is included in the base scope and what will trigger additional services. Discuss the process of paying for or approving additional services.
Check Credentials and Licensing
To call yourself an architect, you must be licensed. Verify that the architects you’re considering are licensed to practice architecture in your jurisdiction. Check their credentials, affiliations with professional organizations, and any certifications or specialized training they may have.
You can look up an architect’s license by state here: https://www.ncarb.org/get-licensed/state-licensing-boards/architect-lookup
Additional information on why a license matters can be found here.
Consider the benefits of hiring local
Not only does spending money in the community keep money in the community, but having local knowledge can give your architect the upper hand. They will better know the local building codes, zoning ordinances, or unique needs of the area (think environmental, flooding, historic districts, etc.). They may also have relationships with local contractors and inspectors.
Keep in mind: you often get what you pay for
Not all architects are equal in terms of skill, experience, and design sensibility. While there are many incredibly talented and reputable architects in the industry, there are also less experienced or less skilled practitioners who may produce subpar designs or provide inadequate service. Choosing the right architect requires careful research, evaluation, and consideration of their qualifications, portfolio, and references.
Final thoughts
Hiring the right architect is a crucial step in the success of your construction or renovation project. By following these tips and conducting thorough research, you can find the perfect architect to bring your vision to life.
Cover Image by mindandi on Freepik
