Whether you’re planning an extensive home renovation or just adding an accent wall to your living room using flexible thin stone veneers, an architect can help you turn your dream into reality. But, then finding the perfect architect who understands your vision and helps you complete the project without overshooting your budget is indeed a massive challenge.
Here, in today’s post, we share with you the top 10 questions that you should ask to evaluate potential architects.
#1: What’s your Signature Style?
There’s no point in working with an architect whose design philosophy doesn’t match with yours. For instance, if an architect’s specialty is sleek, contemporary lines but you want a rustic theme for your home, then choosing that architect is not going to work.
Though you may collaborate with an architect only for a short duration, you need to ensure that both of you are on the same page.
#2: Who will handle the design of the project? Who will be the contact person?
Very often architects have a team of younger designers working under them. The head architect with whom you interact initially won’t be the person who will oversee the work daily. You need all the details of the person who will be your point of contact.
#3: Can you provide 3D Drawings?
Generally, architects provide their clients with two-dimensional plans. These are confusing to read, even if you have come across them earlier. Check out whether your architect can give you a 3-dimensional rendering of the plan. These 3D wallpapers can be rotated and viewed from several angles, to give you a clear idea of the plan.
#4: Can you see any challenges/difficulties with the project?
All architectural projects, irrespective of the scale and nature, are sure to have some challenges and hurdles. Find out whether the architect expects any challenges in the project, and if yes, how does he/she plan to deal with it.
#5: What’s the Estimated Timetable for my Project?
Home renovation projects have a notorious reputation of going beyond their proposed timeline. So, make sure that you get the estimated timetable before you start the project. This way, you can keep an eye on whether the project proceeds according to the timeline.
#6: What’s your track record for completing on time and within budget?
Home renovation projects don’t just exceed beyond the initial timeframe but can frequently run beyond budget. This is a dangerous trend as you may have to spend more than what you predicted initially. While evaluating architects check their track record – the time they take to complete a project within time and within budget.
#7: Knowledge of Construction Models
An architect should have a working knowledge of the construction site. This way, he/she can instruct the workers to bring the plans on paper into reality. Here are a few questions to ask, “Have you worked on a building site before? Do you know how to build?”
When an architect has a clear idea of the construction site, he/she is likely to have a better relationship with the builder.
#8: Do you offer management services?
Architects do more than designing a home design project and providing you with the blueprints. They also offer several allied services like:
#9: How disruptive will the Renovation Project be? What will be your role as the homeowner during the project?
This depends on the scale of your renovation project. If you are doing a complete overhaul, then you may have to move out during the period of the project. On the other hand, if the renovation is cosmetic and small-scale, then you may not have to move, but certain areas of your home will be inaccessible during the project schedule.
#10: Other Questions to Ask
Remember that both you and your architect must have a similar style for the project. If you don’t like what you see in the architect’s profile, don’t try convincing them to do something that they usually don’t do. Look for an architect who shares a similar style of design to what you envision. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, as open and clear communication in the early stages of the project is sure to avoid any hassles later on.
