How To Have A Rewarding Relationship With An Architect
Posted on: 18 January 2022
Paying for architectural services involves more than getting someone to create professional plans for a construction or renovation project. When you deal with an architect, it's wise to try to forge a solid working relationship.
How do you build a relationship when you retain architectural services, though? Here are four tips for developing a bond before you even commit to a particular firm.
Cast a Wide Net
Your odds of finding the right architect for you will go up significantly if you look at several options. Develop a list of firms that deal with projects like yours. Contact them and ask for consultations so you can get a sense of who they are and how they work.
Know Your Project
Few things are more challenging than trying to match talent to a project without having a clear idea of where it will go. While you don't have to iron out every detail before looking into architectural services options, you still want to have a ballpark idea of what the plan will be. If you're designing a house, for example, you should have a sense of what the location will be, how much footage is involved, and if there might be any specific challenges. Even a short list of requirements can help you rule architects in or out for a project.
Look Beyond Talent
People often focus on an architect's demonstrations of talent. It is important, but talent isn't the entirety of the game. Look for professionals who have proven track records of producing deliverables on time. Also, try to find architects whose visions align with yours. When you meet with them, get a sense of what your rapport with them will be.
Likewise, keep in mind you're not the only person who needs to have a good working relationship with the architect. Learn how well they work with contractors, engineers, and regulators. The project will inevitably pose challenges, and you need to hire someone who can adapt and be a team player as circumstances change.
Communicate
Good professional relationships run on communication. You need to be available to answer the architect's questions. Similarly, they need to be available to field your questions and those from other key parties.
Look for someone who is happy to bounce questions around and talk about ideas, too. They should also have a strong desire to loop you and other key stakeholders in during the early design stages. Outside input can help architects evaluate materials, designs, and engineering issues with an eye toward a project's success.
Contact architects in your area for more information.
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