How to Find an Architect That's Right for You

Make the construction and renovation of your home a pleasant and memorable journey by selecting the right architect

Pooja Khanna Tyagi 12 April 2022

Houzz India Contributor. An Architect , Interior Designer, Valuer, a Marathon Runner, and love Writing Poetry and Creative Stories on Building Design. Have been practicing since the year 2000 with specialization in the field of Corporate Interiors with projects extensively published in journals of national repute. Recently honoured with the reputed A3 Foundation award for Journalism for the year 2016 an for architectural poetry in the year 2018. Currently practicing and residing in Delhi and Noida. Website: www.khannaenterprise.com, Email: poojakhanna224@gmail.com, M:9891993392

Houzz India Contributor. An Architect , Interior Designer, Valuer, a Marathon Runner,... More

Comment2

Click "Embed" to display an article on your own website or blog.

Once you decide to construct a new home or plan to renovate an existing home, the next step is to finalise an architect who can ensure smooth design and execution of the work. An architect’s scope of services may include different fields, such as architecture, interiors and landscape design. But the question is, how to select the most appropriate architect who can efficiently take the project forward? After all, home construction and renovation is not only an expensive investment but also an exciting journey where the homeowner’s concepts, style, preferences and aspirations translate into reality. Here are some tips that will help you to shortlist your architect and make the best choice.

LIJO.RENY.architects

1. Ask for recommendations

A word-of-mouth recommendation from people who have recently constructed their home, such as friends, relatives or people you know, is one of the best ways to select your architect. They will give you an honest opinion about what to expect from the architect and what is their fee structure, and give you best advice about how to work with the architect.

Find an architect from the Houzz directory of design professionals

Atelier Design N Domain

2. Go online

Houzz has an extensive city-wise directory of architects. Check out the online portfolios of these architects, along with the list of services provided by them. To make things easier, many offer client reviews on these profile pages too.
It is a must to check out the standalone websites of the architects to know more about their design philosophy and to take a look at their previous projects.

FramesByHarsh Photography LLP

3. Check out design magazines

You can go through design magazines for inspiration or new ideas for your home renovation. Bookmark the homes or images which adhere to your taste and style.

Tip: Every architect usually has a typical style of design and working. Research a bit about what kinds of designs and styles towards which you are inclined before reaching out to the architects.

Naarkaali Design Studio

4. Fix an appointment
Once you have shortlisted two or three architects, schedule one-to-one meetings.

Meet them face-to-face and find out with which architect you feel most comfortable communicating and sharing ideas.
Note that if you are very specific about your tastes and demands, do not choose an architect who is very busy. The architect might not be able to invest enough time in your project, which may be a cause for conflict in the near future.
Ask questions of the architect, such as how does the architect plan to approach the project. Find out about a realistic time frame required to complete the project. Would the architect be open to suggestions made by the homeowner? Last but not least, find out about specifics of the fee structure.

Usine Studio

Fee structure

Architects usually charge the homeowner a percentage of the cost of the whole building project as their fee.
Some firms charge a consultation fee on the basis of rate per square foot multiplied by the total built-up area of the project.
Alternatively, the architect can also quote on a fixed cost or lumpsum payment, depending upon the total scope of work.

Now you must combine these facts and your sense of judgement to select the best architect who suits your budget, time frame and design style.

Read more:
Busted! 5 Myths About Hiring an Architect
Architecture & Art: Architects Reveal Their Alter Ego

Tell us:
Have you worked with an architect recently? How did you go about shortlisting an architect for your home? Share in the Comments section below.

Comment2

Comments (2)

Thank you for reporting this comment. Undo

PRO

rightangledevelopers

Start building a list of potential architects. Find out who designed the projects in your community that you like. Get recommendations from friends, relatives, or acquaintances who have worked with architects. Check to see if the architect is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA).

Like 2 November 2023 at 6:32pm

Thank you for reporting this comment. Undo

paulscreationids

When shortlisting an architect for your home, start by researching local architects and their portfolios online. Consider factors such as their design style, expertise, and client reviews. Narrow down your choices by scheduling meetings or consultations with your top picks to discuss your vision, budget, and project requirements. Ultimately, choose an architect who understands your needs and shares your design vision for your home.

Like 4 March 2024 at 5:16pm