– Getting Started & Next Steps
Top Tips in Picking an Architectural Firm
Every architect possesses a style, method and approach of his or her own. Somehow, this distinguishes them from all the other architects out there. But on your part as a seeker of an architectural firm for a planned residential or commercial construction project, this knowledge puts you into caution. It is because you have to be able to employ an architect who understands the needs of your project and can realize your building designing styles and other preferences. If you have not known of any architect with whom you are comfortable working side by side, then you have no other choice but begin the whole thing with a petty research.
What are the tips essential to consider when choosing an architectural firm? Learn some in the paragraphs below.
1. Do your research.
Initially, you will have to check the needs of your building construction project carefully. Keep in mind that your building should be able to serve your essential residential or commercial purposes and ends. You have to be able to identify the area or amount of space that you need. Then, you need to consider the activities that you shall be doing in the building, or how the building is expected to serve. Of course, you also have to figure out your budget and what measures you are planning to take to completely fund it. How about its location? In these and all other questions and concerns, your architect will be able to assist you as long as you yourself have even a little knowledge of the answers.
2. Make a list of candidate architects.
Whether you have known a couple of architects in your area or are starting from scratch, you need to come up a list of potential architects as this is an integral part of the selection process. Somehow, it comes easy to call friends, workmates or relatives and ask recommendations of a local architect or maybe an architect they have worked with before. You must check the architects if they are a member of the American Institute of Architects. It is quite an advantage to pick an architect who is a member of the AIA because he or she adheres to architect’s professional code of ethics and is connected with a network of professionals and service providers.
3. Get to Know the architects in your list.
For you to be able to make the right choice of an architect to hire, you must be willing to undertake what it takes to get to know them better. But primarily, you should talk with the architect to describe and relay the details of your building construction project. You should seek a clear confirmation from the architect’s company that they can handle your project. If not, then ask for a recommendation or begin looking toward your other candidates. If the firm affirms that they can take on your project, then that is good news and you must then begin asking their company to provide you with literature that outlines their experiences, previous projects, client references, profile, and other material that could vouch their qualification. Review the materials for decision making.
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