You’ll also want to know if the project was completed on time and if the architect stayed within budget. If not, find out why, as sometimes timelines and budgets go over due to unforeseen obstacles, and not bad decision-making by the architect. Ask the architect who worked on the project if they would listen to a quick pitch of your project to see if they’re interested. If not, ask if they could recommend any other architects who might be.
Often sites with directories just for your state or even city can be found, allowing you to find local work.
Often your local city will have its own AIA website. Their directories often cater to architects and firms working in the style of buildings in your area, and services more needed there (i. e heating/AC in hotter and colder climates, waterproofing in places prone to floods, etc. )[4] X Research source A link to the main AIA website can be found here: https://www. aia. org/.
Look up the websites for architects whose designs strike you, seeing what their rates are, and how long their waitlist is.
Look for any qualities or flourishes unique to that architect, and consider hiring them if you would want to have those for yourself.
Don’t be afraid to state your opinion on any ideas or concerns you may have. Giving feedback to let them know what you would or wouldn’t like to see will make things easier for you both, and help them cater to your wants better.
Talk to them about budgeting concerns for carrying this out, saying “If a project you worked on went over budget, why did it happen, and how did you end up resolving the problem?”
Ask them, “Have you had any problems carrying out other’s design ideas? What are some I may face?” Remember to keep in mind the scope of the budget when talking about adding extra elements.
Question them, “How much will I personally be involved with the work?”
Be courteous and understanding towards their choices of assigning who will be working with you, but stress the need to start proper communication with the architect to make sure they’re compatible for what you need.
Always have extra funding set aside for construction project overruns. [14] X Research source [v161695_b01]. 6 October 2022. Generally, 25 percent more money is enough to cover extra expenses.
Some architects include project management in their fee structure, others consider it an extra service and charge accordingly.
Keep in steady communication with your architect to learn about any concerns that may arise.
Having your project built above code may potentially earn you discounts on your insurance premiums. You may not always need areas of your project made above code, but you should talk to the architect about it if you live somewhere prone to certain natural disasters (i. e floods, hurricanes, high winds, etc. ). You should also build above code if the space will be heavily used, such as a floor being reinforced for additional weight if many people will frequently be in a room.
