How to Find an Architect

What to Look For in Hiring an Architect?

Finding an Architect is easy, finding the right Architect is one of the hardest choices you’ll ever make for your project. The right Architect can be a recipe for success, but the wrong one can result in missed opportunities and even failure to build. Trying to separate the one Architect from another is a difficult one but easy once you know the right questions to ask.

Here are the some basic principles to follow when choosing an Architect for your project and don’t be afraid to ask the hard questions.

Project size and Complexity

First consider the location of the project. Most local Architects are capable of taking on any residential dwelling or small building. This makes for some simple separation techniques, including pricing, history of projects, style of design, experience and of course communication with you. I suggest you place the most weight upon preferred ‘style of design’ to make an informed choice of which Architect you wish to engage. Its critical that you can identify what styles you prefer and who is capable of creating that style for you. Make sure of course that an agreed price to complete the project is signed upon before moving forward with the project.

History and Experience

In projects which are larger, more detailed and require some expertise outside of the basis small scale project you should consider ‘experience’ the most important factor. Experience is what will ultimately get the job done right the first time. Nothing beats experience on complex projects because some many issues can arise without clear solutions unless they have been dealt with in work history. Its unlikely you will ever find an experienced price friendly Architect because of the detail required to produce quality results. Issues like engineering consultations and specifications have dramatic results when completed with experience.

Style and Innovation

Perhaps the most appealing aspect of an Architects job is to create a piece of Architecture that is within you budget and time limitations. More often than not, there is a compromise on the style and innovation based on cost and budget projections.

Aware of Revisions

In any project there is always a few revisions in terms of understanding the costs you need to be aware of this before signing on the dotted line so to speak

What to be Causion of

There is always going to be a little back and forth based on the individual Architect. Like all good car salesmen they want your job but only if they can do it for the right price. Don’t be ashamed to ask the big questions especially after a consultation and the Architect has all the information. Generally speak to two or three different Architects to gain some basic fundamentals and make sure you tick these three boxes.

Don’t walk away with more questions then you came with; this is a sure fire way to realise this Architect isn’t for.

Don’t be afraid to ask specifics relating to your project; if they don’t know the answer than the Architect isn’t for you.

Don’t forget to answer all their questions; if the Architect doesn’t ask enough questions than his probably not that interested in the project to begin with.