#001 / HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT ARCHITECT
Are you looking for an Architect and don't know where to start? Do you need some tips on how to not only find an Architect but the right Architect for you and your project? If yes, then all you need to do is carry on reading this blog post. Choosing the right Architect is crucial to the success of any building project and can add so much value to your project.
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+ WHERE TO FIND AN ARCHITECT?
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+ HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT ARCHITECT?
Once you have shortlisted potential Architects that you would like to contact to discuss your project with, here are some pointers to consider when making initial contact. Most Architects will happily discuss potential projects with you for free over the phone or arrange an initial meeting to discuss your project further.
+ check your architect's credentials
In the UK, all qualified Architects must be registered with The Architects Registration Board (ARB). You can access the Register of Architects on their website for free and check that your Architect is registered. This ensures that they have had the education, experience and practice to work as an Architect. Be wary of non-qualified draughtsmen and designers offering architectural services. See blog post 003 for a summary of the different architectural titles to give you a basic understanding of the typical qualifications and experience associated with each title.
+ personality
In some professions, personality is not relevant as long as the job is done successfully. Architecture is not one of those professions. In order for your Architect to design your home successfully, they will have to get to know you, how you live, your daily routines, family relationships and so on in order to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your building project. So it is extremely important that you get on well with and feel comfort with your Architect to get the most out of their service.
+ design ethos
All architects have different approaches to design. It is possible to gauge an Architect’s approach to design from their website most of the time and from initial conversations with them. You should ask yourself whether you like their design approach and does it suit you and your project? If you desire a particular outcome such as a sustainable or passive home, it would be best to find an Architect that specialises within that sustainable architecture or if you would like a contemporary house extension find an architect that specialises in contemporary designs.
+ establish availability & interest early on
If you have a particular timescale in mind it is best to share this with your potential Architect during the initial discussions to avoid wasting anyone's time. Similarly, Architects don't always take on every project and may not be interested in your project due to the size, type of project or location for example.
+ who
It can often be the case that the Directors or Partners have the majority of face to face contact with clients, however behind the scenes there can be someone less experienced and more junior working on your project on a day to day basis. Therefore I would recommend finding out from the start who will be working on your project and in what capacity to avoid any confusion.
+ check your architect's credentials
In the UK, all qualified Architects must be registered with The Architects Registration Board (ARB). You can access the Register of Architects on their website for free and check that your Architect is registered. This ensures that they have had the education, experience and practice to work as an Architect. Be wary of non-qualified draughtsmen and designers offering architectural services. See blog post 003 for a summary of the different architectural titles to give you a basic understanding of the typical qualifications and experience associated with each title.
+ personality
In some professions, personality is not relevant as long as the job is done successfully. Architecture is not one of those professions. In order for your Architect to design your home successfully, they will have to get to know you, how you live, your daily routines, family relationships and so on in order to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your building project. So it is extremely important that you get on well with and feel comfort with your Architect to get the most out of their service.
+ design ethos
All architects have different approaches to design. It is possible to gauge an Architect’s approach to design from their website most of the time and from initial conversations with them. You should ask yourself whether you like their design approach and does it suit you and your project? If you desire a particular outcome such as a sustainable or passive home, it would be best to find an Architect that specialises within that sustainable architecture or if you would like a contemporary house extension find an architect that specialises in contemporary designs.
+ establish availability & interest early on
If you have a particular timescale in mind it is best to share this with your potential Architect during the initial discussions to avoid wasting anyone's time. Similarly, Architects don't always take on every project and may not be interested in your project due to the size, type of project or location for example.
+ who
It can often be the case that the Directors or Partners have the majority of face to face contact with clients, however behind the scenes there can be someone less experienced and more junior working on your project on a day to day basis. Therefore I would recommend finding out from the start who will be working on your project and in what capacity to avoid any confusion.
Last updated: 01/01/2019
We hope that you have enjoyed this blog post and found it useful. We wish you the best of luck with finding an Architect for your project. Please feel free to contact us if you would like to enquire about our architectural services.
