When choosing an architect for your home renovation, you can consider things like:
- References: Ask potential architects for references from previous clients. You can ask about their work quality, communication skills, and timeline adherence.
- Experience: Consider their experience and design style.
- Work style: Think about whether you can have a good working relationship with them.
- Portfolio: Look for a quality portfolio of work you admire.
- Local knowledge: Ask if they know the local planners.
- Membership: Check if they are a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA)
Other ways to find an architect include:
- Word-of-mouth referrals
- Online searches
- Client resource tools at local chapters of the AIA
- Leads found in design magazines
- Referrals from other architects
- You can also consider:
- Building a brief before you start looking
- Finding out who designed the projects in your community that you like
- Checking accreditations
It is very important that you do your homework. Starting with the right plans will determine the outcome of the project. This includes a home you cannot afford, or build, costly mistakes, budget over-runs, and an end product you are not happy with. The right plan will make it easy to get permits.