Choosing an Architect

Architects See the Big Picture
Architects are educated to assist you in defining what you want to build, present options you might never have considered, and help you get the most for your valuable investment. They don't just design four walls and a roof - they create total environments, both interiors and exteriors, that are functional and exciting places in which to work and live.

Architects Solve Problems Creatively
Architects are trained problem solvers. Need more room for your growing family? Architects can show you how to enlarge your home so you won't have to move. Have a limited budget? Architects can also propose ways to get more for your investment than you imagined possible.

Architects Help You Get the Most for Your Construction Dollar
Architects can reduce building costs, decrease your home's energy needs and increase its future resale value through good design.

Architects Make Your Life Easier
Building is a long process that is often messy and disruptive, particularly if you're living in the space while it's under construction. Your architect looks out for your interests and smoothes the process, helps find qualified construction contractors, and visits the worksite to help protect you against work that's not according to plan.

20 Questions to ask your Architect

This guide will help you learn more about your architect and ensure your project runs smoothly.

1. What does the architect see as important issues or considerations in your project? What are the challenges of the project?
2. How will the architect approach your project?
3. How will the architect gather information about your needs, goals, etc.?
4. How will the architect establish priorities and make decisions?
5. Who from the architecture firm will you be dealing with directly? Is that the same person who will be designing the project? Who will be designing the project?
6. How interested is the archtect in the project?
7. How busy is the architect?
8. What sets this architect apart from the rest?
9. How does the architect establish fees?
10. What would the architect expect the fee to be for this project?
11. What are the steps in the design process?
12. How does the architect organize the project?
13. What does the architect expect you to provide?
14. What is the architect's design philosophy?
15. What is the architect's experience/track record with cost estimating?
16. What will the architect show you along the way to explain the project? Will you see notes, drawings, or computer animations?
17. If the scope of the project changes later in the project, will there be additional fees? How will these fees be justified?
18. What services does the architect provide during construction?
19. How disruptive will construction be? How long does the architect expect it to take to complete your project?
20. Does the architect have a list of past clients that you can contact?

Reproduced with permission of the American Institute of Architects - 1735 New York Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20006