10 Questions to Ask your Next Architect
Think about finding the right architect for your project like finding your next pair of shoes. When you shop for shoes, you think about which pair is appropriate for your intended use. If you’re buying shoes to wear on a job site, you would most likely stay away from heels, and if you’re going to buy some shoes for the gym, hopefully you would avoid steel-toe boots.
Think of choosing the right architect the same way, and ask yourself,
“What kind of architect do I need?”
Like shoes, architects come in all different shapes, sizes and styles. Some will be appropriate for your project, while others will not. In the same way you would decide which kind of shoes are best suited for the occasion, you would decide what kind of architect is best suited for your project.
Do you expect your architect to simply hand you the plans for your house and wish you good luck? Or, do you expect your architect to not only create a thoughtful design, but also shepherd the project through to completion? Furthermore, do you want your architect to help you find the right contractor, interior designer and other professionals?
Once you’ve identified your needs and answered a few more of your questions, it’s time to try on a few pairs (so to speak) and see which architect makes you feel comfortable.
Here are a few ways to find your next architect:
Referrals:
It is common for architects to receive jobs based on recommendations from past clients, friends and family. Maybe you know of a neighbor or a relative who recently remodeled their home and maybe you liked the work. Reach out and ask who they used for their architect.
Good websites:
There are plenty of great websites out there, but the one that we recommend, by far, is Houzz. If you need an architect in Laguna Beach, simply type in “Laguna Beach House” and search under the category “Pros”. The site is a really easy to use and it generates accurate search results.
Social Media:
There are plenty of architects who use social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to display their work and portfolios. It may take a little searching to find the right one for you, but at the very least these sites offer a way for clients to view prospective architect’s past work and style.
The local chapter of the AIA:
In most major counties, the American Institute of Architects has a local chapter that can provide resources of all kinds. If you don’t know where to start in your pursuit of a qualified architect, begin here. Once you have identified some suitable candidates, you will want to reach out and ask them some questions:
10 Questions to Consider:
- Can I see some examples of your work?
- What level of service do you feel would be appropriate for my project?
- Have you worked on projects like this before?
- What challenges can I expect?
- What would your past clients say about you and can I speak with them?
- Can you help me allocate a budget for the project, including your fees and the construction costs?
- Will you be able to recommend some builders who would work for us?
- How are your fees structured?
- What other professionals that I will need to deliver on this project?
- Are you familiar with the entitlement process for the city in which my project is located?
Choosing an architect that is right for you is one of your most important decisions, because it can have lasting influence on the success of your project; from the budget, to the execution and everything in between.
After you’ve had a chance to interview some of your candidates, the right choice should be apparent, and if it’s not, keep looking. Just like that awesome pair of shoes, your architect should make you feel comfortable, confident and ready to conquer your next project.
Feel free to contact us, if you think that we would be a good fit for you and your project.
