How to hire an Architect

After careful consideration an Architect sounds like a great idea to move the project forward. Not a designer or draftsman or GC but an Architect. If only there was an easy way to find one. There isn't. However, I will tell you what to look for.

• Find another developer or homeowner who has done the same type of project and ask who they used. References are by far the best way to find an Architect. I get 90% of my jobs this way.
• If you want to build a modular house then look for Architects who have experience in this area. Same goes for the style (modern, traditional but please no mcmansion) or building system (LEED, Living Building Challenge, Advanced framing, etc.) or anything that will increase the ROI.
• Local Architects are more familiar with the requirements of the municipality. It might cost more but they will understand the zoning/regulations and better yet they know the city staff.
• How much work do you want the Architect to do? Do you want/need a permit set of drawings or a full set of construction documents? Very different things and one is much cheaper than the other. This requires its own post to get into the details.

Now that you have a few Architects ready to be interviewed what should you ask them and what answers are you looking for.

• Are they licensed? If they are not then they should not be calling themselves an Architect. This is illegal. Walk away. Don't look back. The state board also list all licensed professional and show any infractions of unlawful practice. I am not saying don't hire a designer or draftsman, etc but if they say they are an Architect they are lying.
• Did they show up on time to the meeting?
• Did they understand what the project entails? Ask them to repeat it. I always repeat what my clients tell me to make sure we are on the same page. I then repeat that in the contract that both parties sign. Understanding who is responsible for what from day one is an absolute.
• Was the conversation smooth and easy going? If it is forced it might not be the right fit. It is important that you are comfortable with the Architect. After all they are putting your thoughts, dreams and most importantly your money onto a piece of paper.
• With that said the number one factor to find the right Architect is how well does he understands your goals?
  • Design style
  • Budget
  • Timeline
  • Fears
  • Dreams
  • Homeowner or Developer

For example if the project requires lots of storage and the Architect keeps saying big open spaces with floor to ceiling windows then they might not be paying attention as there would be no space for storage. Does the client inform the Architect that they need the places rented ASAP and the Architect comes back with a project that will take months to complete. Do not force the hiring of an Architect if they do not understand the goals of the project.

Don't be scared to find the right Architect.

What did I miss? What did I get wrong? Did I get anything right? It's a blog, there is always more to say. More minds are better than one.