5 Steps To Selecting The Best Professional Architect
From the elegant Brownstones to upscale offices, Hoboken is awash with architectural delights. Just look around you at the remarkable Hoboken Terminal, the Hudson Tea Building, or the DeBaun Auditorium and you will see the handiwork of brilliant architects. Now, maybe a historic landmark is a little grandiose for your taste, but a professional architect can create just what YOU are looking for.
- In order to realize what you envision for your architectural project, you must first select an architect with whom you can establish a good working repertoire. Ask friends, family, co-workers, realtors, and contractors for referrals of architects who have worked on projects similar to yours. Conversely, find out if there are architects that may have a less than desirable reputation. Communication is essential. Can you speak frankly and openly with this person? If you tell this architect your thoughts, are they able to visualize your space?
- Meet with several prospective architects. Some architects have a professional office and you will go to see them. Others will come to see you. Ask yourself if you have a preference. Ask if there is a fee for an interview. What are their qualifications and experience? Is the person you are interviewing the person that will be working on your project? Do they predominantly design buildings, houses, remodels, restorations? Are they known for being an office architect, a medical architect, or a healthcare architect? Choose the best professional for your situation.
- Select an architect who seems genuinely interested in your project. They should ask questions regarding your thoughts, ideas, and goals for your space. You should have a rough idea in your head - and on paper is a good idea, too. Jot down your ideas or make a few sketches, even if they do resemble kindergarten-quality drawings... provide as much detail as you can to assist the architect in envisioning YOUR vision. After this time, you should expect to see a least a rough architectural floor plan that you can both discuss and change as needed.
- Decide on a time frame and discuss a schedule with the architect. Do you have a specific deadline for your project? What will happen if the project misses the deadline? If you select a sought-after professional, are you willing to wait for their services or does this project need to be done right away?
- Find an architect who will formulate a plan with you to stay within your budget. Ask about protecting yourself in the event that the project exceeds your budget. Will you be notified if there were significant increases in materials or labor costs?
Take the time to find the right architect for your project! A good architect is one who will spend time with you to get a feel for what you are truly looking for and begin to anticipate your needs. Finding that incomparable architect for your job can result in the creation of a truly priceless work of architecture.