Overview - What Every Client Should Know - Working with an Architect

Architects bring more value to a project than most people realize. Many times when someone thinks of building a facility, adding-on or remodeling, their first thought is to contact a contractor. While contractors offer considerable construction insight and provide important services, it is the architect who has been trained to determine the best solutions to meet specific client needs, site and building opportunities, space planning, design for future expansion, budget, codes, and aesthetic considerations.

The value of the architect in working with governmental agencies, suppliers, manufacturers, contractors, and even entire congregations is immeasurable for the success of a project. The architect works for the client, monitoring and administrating the construction contract for the benefit of the owner.

Remember, not all architects are created equal! Clients should not base their selection on fee alone. When interviewing for architectural services you should request information related to:

• How many projects of this specific building type, proposed project size, project scope similarities, and complexity have you designed?
• List of client references for projects of similar size and type as your project.
• Visit those projects.
• Ask if the architect will go with you to visit facilities – even those he didn’t design.
• Ask about his Programming services and methodology for gathering program information.
• Ask if Master Planning is provided and how much planning services make up his portfolio.
• Does the architect design other building types and if so what types?
  Is the architect willing to have the owner provide consultants for such services as Audio, Media, Production, Acoustic, Technology, or Special Lighting design?
• Ask for past performance regarding cost control and change orders.
• Is he willing to work with a pre-selected contractor? Construction Manager? Owner-managed process? Will any of these methods change his fee or schedule?
• What services are provided during the Bidding / Pricing Phase? Construction Phase? Post-construction?

Architects generally provide a broad range of services; your architect should customize his services and corresponding fee structure based on your specific project scope and your specific needs.