What to look for when hiring an architect guide, Creative and design ability advice online
What to look for when hiring an architect guide
16 May 2023
Finding the right architect to support your building project is crucial to achieving your ambitions. They can inject the skills and guidance necessary to turn a vision into a reality.
Working with the wrong person can lead to miscommunication, conflict and poor results. I’m sure you’d rather not have to file a professional negligence claim after a project has gone wrong. How can you avoid this?
Do I need an architect?
First of all, you should consider if you need an architect at all. Not every project requires the expertise of one. If you already have an idea in mind and can convey this clearly to a builder, then that may suffice.
If you’ve got a rough idea or you need inspiration, an architect can offer their creative and design abilities to give you options based on your brief. Many will be able to project manage too, so they can ensure that designs come to life with all the necessary standards. It will cost you, but it can be worth it to create something unique and spectacular.
What to look for when hiring an architect – advice guide
Project portfolio
Ideally, you’ll be able to find someone who’s worked on similar projects abefore and can show evidence of this in an impressive portfolio. Experience is key in architecture and previous projects will tell you a lot about their competency and standard of work.
Accreditations
Look for architects with relevant accreditations from regulatory bodies such as RIBA and CIAT. These are key trust signals and should be promoted on a firm’s website. The steps needed to gain those accreditations make them highly valuable in determining competency and experience.
Local knowledge
Knowledge of local planning laws and industry insight should be an important consideration too. This can help to ensure your project doesn’t run aground, saving you time and money. Hiring a local firm will help communication and schedule planning because they won’t have to travel far to site.
Passion and enthusiasm
An architect without passion and enthusiasm for your brief is unlikely to deliver something exceptional. Get a sense of this in your initial meetings and don’t be afraid to ask difficult questions – the way they answer will give you a clear indication of their commitment and attitude towards your project.
Questions to ask an architect before hiring
It’s always a good idea to get a thorough understanding of the process when working with architects, particularly if it’s your first time. Here are some basic questions to ask before you hire:
- How do you charge?
- How involved will you be during construction?
- Who will be my point of contact?
- How will you approach challenges?
- What is your project estimate for duration and cost?
- Would you suggest anything new or different?
What to look for when hiring an architect summary
These basic questions should give you a rough idea of how the process works and what an architect’s responsibilities are to your project. Do your research and find the best fit for you!
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Edinburgh Architecture
Liberton Brae Townhouses
Design: LBA Architects
image courtesy of architects
Liberton Brae Townhouses
St James Quarter Edinburgh
image of the development
St James Quarter
Comments on this What to look for when hiring an architect advice article are welcome.