Selecting an Architect

As a home owner or developer, perhaps the first and most difficult part of starting a project is selecting the right architect. Not every architect has the same skill set in design, public presentation, construction management, problem solving, negotiation, mediation, etc. As a result, it's difficult as a first time client to make "apples to apples" comparison between architects and determine which architect is best for you and your project. For developers, your previous experience helps both the relationship with your architect and the process as well.

If you are selecting an architect based upon price only, you've made your first major mistake. While price is always a factor, the services provided, design skills, quality of construction documents, and ability to interface with the general contractor may prove to be far more important.

Questions you need to ask yourself before you meet with an architect

1. What is it that I really want to build? What are my needs and wants? What is my budget? To help answer these questions you need to create your own wish list and budget.
2. How much time do I have to dedicate to this process? If you work all day, or are raising a young family? How much time can you really spend interfacing with your architect?
3. Do you like to shop? Do you like to research products and finish materials that will be in your new building? Do you feel comfortable picking out colors and finishes for your new building? Or do you need help doing all of this? And, if so, what level of assistance do you need?

Answering these questions helps you determine what type of service you need from an architect.

Creating the Design Team

Keep in mind that when you select an architect that you are embarking on a two to three year working relationship with your architect and your builder. As a result there are more factors than just design skills, construction documents and costs of an architect for the services rendered. When you are selecting your architect, recognize that there is a triangular relationship between yourself, the architect and eventually the builder.

Selecting the right architect and builder may prove to be the most important part of creating the right team. While it's not so important that an architect have worked with the selected builder before, it is important that they share the same philosophy of collaboration and problem solving with your best interest in mind.

Style of Architecture

At the start of every project it seems we are asked "What is your favorite style of architecture?" As an architect, our response usually is "I appreciate them all for different reasons" but do not have a single design style that is our offices "signature".

The reasons for this are many. Unfortunately, all too many times, the style and proportion of buildings are based upon design guidelines and building codes implemented by individual communities that restrict building height, set backs, materials, and even style. As a result it becomes more difficult to create the next generation of architecture as it's met with skepticism and resistance to change based upon guidelines already in place.

Many times we choose traditional architecture because we feel comfortable with it. We grew up with it and are used to seeing it. How is it that we can feel comfortable with so many different styles? For the most part, it comes down to proper proportions that give us a sense of balance. The detailing that makes it a Craftsman, Mediterranean, Tuscan or Contemporary is what makes the difference.

If you don't already have a specific preference regarding architectural style, our goal is to understand what styles of architecture you are comfortable with and understand where those comfort levels come from so that we can apply that knowledge to your design.

Architectural styles continue to change. Our current "going green" emphasis will introduce refined styles most likely based upon traditional architecture that will create new looks and feel. We welcome the opportunity to set the standards of these new designs.

Design Philosophy

We do projects large and small. We recognize that every client has a budget and a wish list. Our goal is to match your wish list with your budget. Architecture is not a vision, but a process. Beautiful architecture, responsive site plans, well thought out floor plans, and interior and exterior architecture are by design. Architectural design, City approvals and construction is a very long process. It can be stressful, so you need to be sure you enjoy it along the way.

The Process

After you have selected us as your architect, we will make sure that you understand the total process involved in your process from its inception to its end. This will include:

• Identify consultants that you need to use during both the design and construction process.
• The design process itself
• Interface with City agencies for the design review process and construction documents and what takes place during the construction process itself.
• Selection of the General Contractor
• Construction Administration during the building construction
• Closing out your project after construction is complete