- Just start the work with a new architect and ask them if anything existing needs to change?

offering to do some leg work on orders or maybe clarifying an RFI or something with the architect.

That being said, I do have some need for an interior designer/architect when I am doing additions or moving walls to create new spaces. 

Designed by architect A.

We are builders, and our son does architectural renderings for us (he's not an architect) We just sold a new home off his renderings, before we even closed escrow on the land!

The worst part was, the listing pointed out the original architect (who was MCM famous), but the rehabbed interior now looks just like any other traditional with no nod to the architecture at all.

Make sure you have consulted an attorney (for land use / deed restrictions, etc) and architect PRIOR to applying for permit / board review...

I do this all the time for 8-5 job as an architect. 

I realized after talking with several people (A friend who happens to be an architect, my Broker, and another investor) it was crazy to buy something like this, at that price point, without having the ability to do a full inspection and withdraw the offer.

I guess, The architect was being "creative" and at the time, we agreed.