Questions to Ask

Every architect and firm is About something different. Skills, expertise, interests and values brought to any project will certainly vary. The challenge is finding an architect that aligns closely with your project’s needs, your personal style and collaborative spirit. 

​Here are some questions to address when meeting with a prospective architect about their Services.

Experience

• What is your design philosophy?

• What sets your firm apart from other architects with similar experience?

• Do you have experience with the building type and size of my project?

• Will you share with me a Portfolio of similar projects and provide a list of client references?
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• Who from the architecture firm will I be dealing with on a regular basis? Is this the person who will design my project?​

My Project

• Are you interested enough in this project to make it a priority?

• Do you offer a Free Consult or will I have to pay a fee to get an architect on-site to talk with?

• What challenges do you foresee for my project?

• What do you see as the important issues or considerations in my project?

• What is your estimated timetable for my project?

• What means will you use to collect information about my needs, goals, etc.?
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• How will you help me to fully understand the scope and sequence of the project? Will you utilize models, drawings, or computer animation?

Design

• What are the steps in the design process, and how are they organized?

• How similar are your designs? Do you tend to repeat patterns or create Custom Plans for each client?

• What criteria will be used to establish priorities and make design decisions?

• What do you expect me to provide?

• How disruptive will construction be?
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• What role do you have during construction? Am I expected to work with the contractor directly?

Sustainability

• Do you have experience with “green” or sustainable design?

• Do you regularly integrate low or no cost sustainable design strategies into projects?

• Considering the many areas that may be affected by sustainable design, how will you determine which options to pursue?
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• If sustainable design technologies are implemented, do upfront costs exist that may affect the construction budget? What are the expected pay back times?​

Project Fees

• How do you establish fees?

• In anticipation of a formal proposal with costs, what would you expect your fee to be for this project?

• What is included in your basic services and what services would incur additional fees?

• If the scope of the project changes later in the project, will there be additional fees? How will these fees be justified? How will this be communicated to me?
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• What is your track record with completing a project within the original budget?​

How to work with an architect

​Architects ultimately blend beauty, function and structural integrity into a budget. Getting the most out of your collaboration is key.
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​Whether you’re planning a small addition to your house, a large remodel or a brand-new custom home, the Services of an architect can be a worthwhile investment in a home tailored to your specific site, taste and lifestyle.

How you work with your architect will gravely impact the overall success and quality experience you receive during the process.

So don't hesitate to ask questions early About anything and everything. If you feel cautious or unsure, chances are it might not be such a great fit especially when the time constraints and construction costs start coming into play.

​Make sure you have someone advocating with ... and for you!

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