The 7 Questions to Ask An Architect/Designer BEFORE You Hire Them
Like anything else in life, not all architects/designers are created equal. Architects tend to present well, have attractive websites, and have an impressive portfolio of work, so how do you know which one is right for you?
Don’t just listen to your cousin. Instead, ask for these 7 qualifiers:
Similar Projects Completed Recently
Has he/she done what you are trying to do previously? And, equally as important, have they done it recently? We typically use 3 years as a good timeframe. Building codes, design trends, and costs all change. You want a partner who can apply lessons learned from other projects to benefit you.
2. Bandwidth
What other projects is he/she working on currently? Do they have sufficient time to prioritize your project, or will you always be second fiddle?
3. Design Style
Does their style align with what you are envisioning? If you want a craftsman-style home and his portfolio is all modern mega mcmansions, he is probably not the right fit.
4. Budget & Schedule
Every construction project is different, but a good architect should always be able to give you a rough budget range for what something should cost and how long it will take based on past experiences. If an architect/designer is not able to answer these questions, that usually indicates they don’t have deep experience doing similar projects.
5. Process
This one is key. Is she able to articulate EXACTLY what it will be like to work together every step of the way? Is she able to map out each step of the process, set expectations, and convey confidence to show you they’ve done this before successfully? The actual construction is full of surprises. The communication and process should not be.
6. Trade Discounts / Commissions
How does the Architect specify furnishings, fixtures, and equipment? Do they have relationships they are beholden to? It’s not uncommon, in residential work, for designers to receive commissions from companies to specify their products. You want a partner who isn’t going to specify a floor tile because they get a commission, but rather because it’s good-looking, durable, in-budget, and the right fit for you and the project. (To be clear, we aren’t explicitly saying that commissions are a bad thing. It is often a good thing to have your design partner choose products from companies they have relationships with. You just want the selections to be made for the right reasons).
7. Vibe / Communication
Design and construction projects can last a long time, often 12+ months. Do you like this person/company’s vibe? Are you able to envision working with them for the foreseeable future? Is the communication clear, concise, respectful? Will the process be fun and enjoyable? Life is simply too short to work with people you don’t like…
Have more questions? Let’s chat! Contact us at info@atelier-clem.com to see how we can help you.
This content is for educational and entertainment purposes only. Prior to undertaking any sort of project, we encourage you to consult with a qualified professional in your market.