O.K.,
I know I want to hire an architect, but how do I
know this is right for me?
Finding
an Architect wasn't a problem. The challenge is to
determine if we are right for you! We don't
believe in dictating what your needs are. We
believe in working with you as a team. We need
your involvement to make a project succeed the way
it should.
What
questions should I ask?
This
is the most exciting and creative time to ask
questions. Ask anything and everything that comes
to mind. We are determined to make you feel
comfortable in the process of designing a project
together. Discuss how long the project will take
to complete. Make sure you talk budget! Ask about
the different charges we will anticipate and
discuss any budget constraints up front. Getting
the difficult questions of fees asked up front
will allow for an easier discussion to continue
later.
How
do Architect's charge for their service?
That
varies. Sometimes we charge an hourly rate,
sometimes a fixed fee, and still other times a
percentage of construction costs. Sometimes we
suggest a combination of the above. Often, it
depends on the scope of work, type of project and
amount of services. Whatever the method, we
discuss the payment plan early and make sure
there's an agreement, before the process begins.
Should
I get everything in writing?
Absolutely!
We provides a variety of standard contract
forms that are used widely throughout the
industry.
Wait,
I'm having second thoughts; tell me again why I
need an Architect?
Would
you go into surgery without a doctor? Would you
embark on a court case without a lawyer? Well,
that one you could manage, but you might not get
the optimum results. It's the same with using
an Architect. First of all, we can help you clarify
and define your wants and needs. Architects are
the sole professionals who have the education,
training and experience to guide you through the
entire process.
Secondly,
we see the big picture. Whether it's a new home or
a renovation, an office or a public library, we
can help you create your dream, and do it within
your time frame and your budget.
But
isn't it more expensive to work with an Architect?
Not
in the long run. A well-designed project can be
built more efficiently and more economically.
Energy-efficient buildings can save quite a bit on
fuel bills. Choosing the appropriate materials
means they will last longer and save on
replacement costs. A well-designed building will
also add to the building value or selling price,
once it's time to make a move.
When
should I bring the Architect in on the project?
The
sooner the better. When possible, the Architect will
assist you in choosing a site for your new
building- a decision that will play a big role in
determining the shape your building will take, as
well as its cost. Before actually designing the
project, we can also help you with budget
considerations, time constraints, and long-term
planning for your project completion.
What
can I count on the Architect to provide?
That
depends on the scope of professional services
required for your project as well and what you and
the Architect have agreed on in advance. But services
can include preliminary (schematic) design, design
development, preparation of documents, and
administration of the agreements between you and
your builder or contractor, and project
management.
What
are my responsibilities?
The
owner should be clear on design objectives,
constraints, and criteria. A well-defined budget
at the start is critical. The owner is also
responsible for any services that are called for
during construction, such as testing services. The
owner should also provide any legal, accounting,
auditing, and insurance counseling services that
are needed for the project.
Any
tips to ensure that this is going to be a
successful relationship?
Yes,
keep talking!! It's vital to keep the lines of
communication open during the course of the
project. It's critical that you and your Architect have
a relationship that will withstand the inevitable
bumps in the road that will occur along the way.
Make it your business to be involved. Remember
that it is easier to solve a small problem quickly
than to have it develop into a big one.
For
more information on working with Connections
Architectural, go to You
and your Architect
