How to Find the Right Architect-------October 19, 2023
Hand Rendering by Robert Nebolon Architects
How to Hire an Architect: Finding an architect is the first step in turning your architectural dreams into reality. Finding the right architect is the big challenge. So, how do you find the right architect? You will spend a lot of time with the architect—more than you think—so it’s important that both parties have similar goals and concepts from the onset and probably a similar world-view. The following is one way to find the right architect:
Step 1: Define Your Project Goals
Before you begin your search for an architect, it's crucial to have a clear understanding of your project's scope, budget, and objectives—write these down on one page. Are you building from scratch, renovating, or adding an extension? What is your desired architectural style? Having a well-defined project brief will help potential architects understand your needs and also helps you narrow the field of choices.
Step 2: Ask for Recommendations
Start by seeking recommendations from friends, family, colleagues, or online platforms like Houzz or ArchDaily. The local AIA chapter will have a list available. Personal referrals can provide valuable insights into an architect's work and their professionalism. Create a list of 3-5 candidates
Step 3: Review Portfolios
Once you have a list of potential architects, take the time to review their portfolios online. Look for projects that align with your vision and aesthetic preferences. Pay attention to the diversity of their work, which can indicate creativity and adaptability. See if their work is recognized by other architects or building associations, or even published in magazines or books—While it may not be high in importance, it’s always nice to know that your architect is recognized by others for doing something well.
Step 4: Check Credentials and Licensing
Verify that the architects on your list are licensed to practice in your state. Only licensed architects can use the following terms: “architect,” “ architecture,” or “architectural” on their business cards, business signage or any other business platform—so that should provide a clue. Also, you can ask when in doubt.
Step 5: Assess Experience and Expertise
Consider the architect's experience in projects similar to yours. Have they worked on residential, commercial, or industrial projects? A professional with relevant experience is more likely to understand the challenges specific to your project type. Also, some portfolios may not be up to date, so ask the architect if you could see recent work.
Step 6: Evaluate Communication Skills
Interview potential architects to assess their ability to listen, understand your vision, and communicate their ideas clearly. Also important, determine if the architect has “people skills:--the experience presenting projects to public bodies such as planning commissions, or design review boards and dealing with neighbors. In many cases, your project may require planning approval before the technical plans are even started. In some cases, a public hearing may be required and the right architect will skillfully navigate your project through this maze.
Step 7: Discuss Fees and Budget
Be transparent about your budget and inquire about the architect's fee structure. Understanding the cost implications upfront will help you make an informed decision. Also, discuss how additional costs or changes during the project will be handled. Many types of fee structures exist so it’s best to discuss which architect uses which fee structure.
Step 8: Inquire About Project Management
Ask about the architect's project management approach. For example, how do they handle project timelines, contractor selection, and quality control? A well-organized architect will help ensure your project stays on track.
Step 9: Check References
Request references from past clients and contact them to inquire about their experiences working with the architect. This can provide valuable insights into their professionalism and the quality of their work.
Step 10: Review Contracts Thoroughly
Once you've selected an architect, carefully review the contract terms and conditions. Make sure you understand everything and ask questions if you don’t. Ensure that all expectations, deliverables, and responsibilities are clearly defined in the contract. Some states require that architectural agreements outline their scope of services clearly in the agreement.
These 10 steps should guide you well but, in the end, it does come down to chemistry, that intangible that is hard to define but both parties know when the chemistry is right.
Also, city departments like it when architects are involved because it makes the city’s job easier. Think of it-an architect prepares plans in a professional understandable manner that adheres to industry quality standard and everyone speaks the same jargon. So, when the planner encounters plans are incomplete, poorly drawn and generally hard to read, then that makes the planner’s more difficult—they don’t like that. The city planner or building department has to work harder to understand the plans while also deal with planning issues that weren’t understood, and then guide someone on how to prepare plans—-something not in their job discription.
Finally, while interviewing an architect, keep in mind that the architect is probably interviewing you as well. The architect also wants a good fit, a client who pays on time, and a client who can understand that ups and downs will occur during the approval process and during the construction process—and this is normal. The architect is there on your behalf and represents your interests during all phases. I hope this helps on how to hire an architect.