Working with an architect is a new experience for most organizations. Unless you’ve taken on many building projects, you may not understand an architect’s role or how to hire one.
With over 40 years of experience, we’ve guided countless clients through the design and construction process. The architect-client relationship can last years, so it’s important to find someone who understands your organization and has the expertise to bring your vision to life.
Whether you work with us or another firm, our goal is to help you find the right fit. This article will discuss four reasons to hire an architect and six attributes to look for when making your selection.
4 Reasons to Hire an Architect
1. Design Expertise
The most obvious reason to hire an architect is for their design expertise. Architects are trained to ask questions, think creatively, and develop unique solutions. They will work to understand your daily operations and the needs of occupants—resulting in a building that is both functional and beautiful.
A tailored design can lead to measurable results. Whether you want to boost workplace efficiency, attract students, or improve patient recovery times, an architect can help translate your goals into design solutions.
2. Building Codes and Zoning Laws
Buildings are subject to many codes and regulations to ensure the health and safety of the public. Architects are well-versed in these codes and can deliver a design that meets the requirements.
At the same time, they can study local zoning ordinances, guide you through the building permitting process, and help you obtain the necessary approvals. When using Tax Incremental Financing, historic tax credits, or local development grants, this knowledge can help you obtain funding.
3. Project Management
A building project can be complex and time-consuming, involving contractors, subcontractors, consultants, and product vendors. An architect remains on the project from the start of design work until the end of construction, facilitating communication with all parties.
An architect will remain on a project throughout construction.
During construction, they will observe the work and check that it matches the design intent. They will also review payment requests, facilitate disputes, and work to ensure the contractor stays on schedule and within budget.
A quality architect will advocate for your interests, so the completed building matches your vision.
4. Sustainable Design
Sustainability is an increasingly important component of any building project. Most architects are trained to incorporate sustainable design practices and use techniques that improve building performance.
These practices reduce your carbon footprint and long-term operational costs while improving occupant well-being. Research into systems, materials, and their life-cycle costs can help you achieve a return on your investment.
6 Attributes to Look for When Hiring an Architect
1. Experience and Expertise
When hiring an architect, it helps to look for someone who has experience in your project type. Ask for portfolios of their previous work and references to get an idea of their skills and expertise.
While expertise is critical, your architect can also consult third-party experts to bring value to your project. This approach can lead to outside-the-box thinking and more innovative solutions. As such, ask potential architects about the team they plan to assemble.
2. Communication Skills
Good communication is essential to any working relationship. Choose an architect who listens to your needs and can recommend their ideas clearly and concisely.
When interviewing architects, ask how they will communicate and keep you informed throughout the process. You should also ask how they plan to engage project stakeholders and help you reach a consensus.
Pre-design activities like empathy mapping, visioning workshops, and benchmarking tours can help stakeholders buy into design decisions, leading to more successful outcomes.
3. Creativity and Innovation
Architecture is a creative field, and you want someone who can bring new and innovative ideas to your project. Exploring an architect’s work, reading project case studies, and looking at their industry recognition can help you get a sense of their level of innovation.
Beyond aesthetics, look for innovative approaches to sustainability and adaptability. A building is a long-term investment. Flexible spaces that can change with occupants’ needs are more likely to stand the test of time and provide a return on investment.
4. Attention to Detail and Technical Proficiency
Architecture involves complex technical knowledge and skills, including an understanding of building codes, construction techniques, and materials. Choose an architect who is technically proficient and stays up to date on the latest industry trends and practices.
Ask about their experience with Building Information Modeling (BIM) and energy modeling software. If sustainability is a priority, ask about their experience with building certification systems like LEED and Living Building Challenge. Researching the industry and asking pointed questions can help you better understand an architect’s skill set.
5. Project Management Skills
An architect’s reputation for project management is as important as their design skills. Building projects are complicated, requiring coordination with various consultants, contractors, and product vendors. Choose an architect who can work with multiple parties to ensure the success of the project.
Along with an architect’s project management skills during construction, ask how they will manage the project during the design process. Close relationships with product vendors and research into materials and supply chains can help keep the project on schedule and within budget.
6. Trust and Compatibility
Above all, choose an architect you can trust. Building projects are a large investment and the design and construction process can last years. Look for someone who understands your needs, shares your vision, and with whom you can develop a good working relationship.
Learn More About Hiring an Architect
Whether you plan to build a new structure or renovate an existing one, an architect can help you bring your vision to life.
Building projects are long and complex, so it’s important to find someone who has the expertise, technical proficiency, and project management skills to keep your project on track. Researching firms and interviewing potential candidates can help you find the right fit.
When interviewing architects, determine how they will engage your team and charge for their services. Learn more by reading about the top questions to ask when hiring an architect.