How to Choose an Architect for Your Next Project
Not all architects are equal when embarking on different types of home improvement and design projects. Just as lawyers and doctors have areas of expertise, each architect has a distinct style, experience, and licensing. Choosing an architect can have a significant impact on the final outcome of your project. Here are our five key steps on how to pick a good architect for your next project.
Narrow Down Your Choices
Because architects are licensed state-wide, search engines like Google can only get you so far in a search for an architect. The AIA has a list of registered architects in your state as well as the licensing board that can help you narrow down search results if you’re looking to work with architects who are licensed in your state. Each architect leans towards a different project type and should be chosen based on mastering that project types’ unique zoning restrictions.
Cyber Stalk
Spend some time on a prospective architects website, social media, and community pages to see examples of their work and reviews of their services. If you know of neighbors who have recently undergone renovations, find time to chat with them about their experience with area professionals.
Schedule a Consultation
Most architects will offer consultations to help you choose the best fit for your project. Take advantage of this offering and scheduling a consultation to talk about project expectations, pricing, timelines, and more. Consultations can either be complimentary or cost a small fee, to get dedicated time and thoughtful insight can be the difference between going forward with a project or scaling back your project.
Come Prepared
When speaking with prospective architects, come prepared with inspiration images, information about your land (hopefully your plat), and any must-have features in your project. Transparency between client and designer helps lead to more accurate price and project timeline estimations.
Understand The Process and Next Steps
Understanding the process of working with an architect can help you manage expectations and budget for future costs. During your research or while interviewing potential architects, it is important to understand how they plan to manage the project, the team involved, and the timeline with how they work.
Once an architect gets close to completing your plans, you’ll need to select a contractor to provide final pricing and execute the drawings. Depending on the offerings of your architect, you’ll also need to go through the selection process to fine tune the details and materials used within your home. Understanding the full process and prioritizing architects with relationships with reputable contractors can help you save time, headaches, and even money.
Lee Design Studio is experienced in managing all aspects of design, selection, and project coordination. Read more about our services and experience, here.