The Architect / Owner Relationship
Knowing how to find the right Architect for your home design project is all about relationships. And like the beginning of any good relationship, you need to know what you are after before you start looking. If you are unsure of what your final goal is, then you can be left floundering.
Know What You Want
Firstly, think about what you are wanting to achieve from your home design project. Is it a renovation or a complete new build? Do you want to expand on the design of your existing home or bring in a new style of architecture you have seen elsewhere for your new build? Knowing exactly what you are after will help you find the right fit for you and give you a good starting point to build upon.
Do Your Research
Secondly, do your research. Research local Architects you have seen with similar work and style to what you are after. Word of mouth is the most powerful marketing tool there is. Anyone can advertise their services for a paid fee. But word of mouth is free and means the most. See what experiences and outcomes previous clients have had with the particular Architect you are looking at. Don’t be afraid to shop around.
View Their Work
Where possible, physically viewing an Architect’s work will give you an up close and personal view of the final product. Some Architects will be happy to arrange an appointment for you to view their recent work. This is a great opportunity to meet and initiate a relationship with your shortlisted Architects.
Establish a Strong Partnership
The strength of your relationship with your Architect needs to be solid to ensure a successful project outcome. Building a new home or embarking on a renovation can be highly stressful. You need to ensure you and your Architect share the same values. Ensure you have open communication channels and feedback mechanisms.
What Benefit is There in Enlisting a Professional Architect?
When looking at your overall budget, it can be tempting to skimp on additional costs. An Architect cannot be one of those! They can help with many additional aspects of your build including:
- Managing the build
- Initiating and confirming builders
- Organising contracts
- Keeping the build within your budget
- Even down to the finer details of colour and furniture selections
Essentially, a good architect will help you to redefine the essential design elements of your project. Whether you are looking at a new Hamptons style build or a modern, contemporary addition to your existing home, they will help you reach your final vision.
Check the Fees
It is always important to check the fee structure of your chosen Architect. Confirm what their services include, exclusions and whether they have professional liability insurance (this is critical).
Not Sure Where To Start?
Nat is always happy to provide advice before you get things started. He can help to point you in the right direction of an architect that will compliment your design project. As above all, a good client-Architect relationship will ensure the future success of your home design project.
