We're in the process of hiring a residential architect to work with us on the rest of our remodel and addition. Choosing the architect is an important decision because their vision will ultimately shape the project, and we'll spend a lot of time working with them.
I really wish we'd hired an architect from the very beginning. An architect will handle planning, permits, and logistics. They'll know when a structural engineer is needed, make sure the contractor's work matches the plans, etc. We didn't hire an architect to start with because good architects are usually busy for a few weeks (or months) out, and we wanted to start immediately. However, that haste later delayed us for months while we unraveled planning problems.
I compiled a list of architects from positive referrals and selected a few with appealing portfolios. Now we're moving on to the next step: meeting with the architects at our house and asking them questions. We want to get a feel as to whether we'd enjoy working with them.
After doing some research, here are questions we're using to interview architects:
- What do you think is working now about the house, and what do you think will need to be improved?
- What are some of challenges you foresee on this project?
- Can you tell me about a similar project, and how it went? What were the biggest challenges?
- Do you have experience working with planning committees on historic properties?
- Can you describe your working style with {interior designers, structural engineers, contractors}?
- Do you see project management as part of your role in the project? Do you discuss timeline estimation with the contractor?
- What's your process for understanding clients' needs?
- How often will I meet with you face-to-face? When will you visit the job site?
- Who will handle our project's day-to-day needs?
In a few months, I'll look back at this and see whether there were questions we wish we'd asked in hindsight!
