What to look for when hiring an architect?

Apart from being RIBA chartered, what else should you look for in an architect that you're going to use for a house renovation and extension?

Asked by Joyce on 11th Feb 2023
Expert Trade Answers
"it's a personal relationship and you're asking someone to design a space that you will live in. their design ideas need to be workable for you so make sure that the relationship is there. Ask friends and family for recommendations."
Answered on 11th Feb 2023 - Member since Dec 2022 - report
"Find Someone Who Has a Genuine Interest in Your Project

It’s important to work with someone who is genuinely interested in your project and what you’re trying to achieve. If the architect your hire doesn’t have that interest, it can have a negative impact on what you do.

They won’t be invested in it, and they won’t be so concerned about the success of the project. So, talk to them about what you want to do and see what their reaction is. It’s often much better to work with people who are eager to get the job done.

Look at Their Past Work Closely

You need to understand the work of the architect before you hire them. If you don’t, you might hire someone who has a particular style that you don’t like.

You should also talk to people who have worked with that architect in the past. When you do that, you’re able to get a feel for what they’re like to work with. If they are slow or difficult to work with, this might cause you to look for an alternative.

If you opt for a residential architect company, they will have their own website. So, you can visit these websites and learn more about what they do.

Know Every Cost Involved

Building A Home: What To Look For When Hiring An Architect

Building a home of your own is never going to be something that’s cheap. In fact, it can be pretty costly. You don’t want those costs to get out of your control. That’s why it’s so important to learn about every cost that will be involved.

Different architects work out their fees in different ways. You don’t want to be caught out by a hidden fee or cost that you hadn’t anticipated.

Have a frank discussion with the architect about costs and fees. Ask them all the questions you need answers to. And don’t hire them or sign any deals before you are satisfied with what you hear.

Find Out What Support They Offer

Some architects offer you lots of support. Others offer you less. You need to understand exactly what you get from an architect when you hire them.

If you ask me, you should always hire an architect that helps you with things like project management. And if they can give you advice on which contractors to work with, that’s a benefit too.

When architects have been doing their job for a long time, they will know which contractors and builders are best for them. So, always find out what they can offer. The more you get for your money, the better it is for you

Source:

https://www.culturesouthwest.org.uk/guides/building-a-home-what-to-look-for-when-hiring-an-architect/"
Answered on 11th Feb 2023 - Member since Mar 2019 - report
"Make sure they have the time and capacity to understand your vision"
Answered on 17th Jun 2023 - Member since Jun 2023 - report
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