How to Swipe Right on a Residential Architect

It is a well-known saying that there is plenty of fish in the sea. And truer words have never been spoken. When you are in the market for a residential architect, how do you know who the perfect match for your needs will be?!

You could find someone with hundreds of great reviews online, but how can you be sure that a year later you would also leave them a great review?! Unless you know a residential architect, all others are on an even playing field.

So how to get out of this conundrum?! A residential architect’s expertise is one of the most critical aspects to consider, but the right architect will also be someone you feel comfortable working with.

For your convenience, there are some rules you could follow to find the residential architect of your dreams. So, let’s get going.

Step 1: Develop A Preliminary Brief Before You Look for an Architect

Before you start approaching architects, you must have a brief ready for the first discussion. It could be a simple list of your requirements and ideas. If you have a preliminary brief ready, the residential architect will know what you are after so they can determine if they are the right fit for the project.

The brief does not have to be set in stone, but a rough idea could go a long way in finalizing things. It could include aspects such as:

  • The number of bedrooms.
  • The number of bathrooms.
  • The materials you like.
  • The architectural style you prefer.
  • The preliminary budget.
  • Are you considering an open plan?
  • Do you want landscaping in the garden area?
  • Are you looking for an outdoor living space?

Step 2: Ask Around, Your Friends or Coworkers Maybe They Know of a Reliable Residential Architect

When it comes to finding a residential architect, referrals go a long way in partnership with a simple internet search. Social media platforms are overflowing with architects showcasing their work and they always put their contact details to find more clients. This could be a convenient step for you.

You could also ask for recommendations from your friends, neighbors, or coworkers. Simply ask them if they know any residential architect they would recommend.

In addition, you could also take a stroll around the neighborhood and look at newly constructed houses, if any. There is no harm in asking your neighbors who they hired for their home.

These are some of the basic ways that could start your search for a residential architect.

Step 3: Find an Architect With Whom You Can Communicate Openly

Your residential architect is the person you are trusting your home with. There can be no room for miscommunication. You will be investing time and money and the architect’s approach must be to involve you in talks.

You must feel confident that you can approach the architect about the process without any hesitations. This will help run the process smoothly and without problems.

Any communication error could cause delays and have a lasting effect on the entire project. So, when choosing an architect ensure that they are dependable and communicative.

Step 4: Find an Architect Whose Work You Have Seen Beforehand

Social media has made it so convenient for you to check out any residential architect’s work. Whether it’s their projects, sketches, or blogs, you can access them through the touch of your hands.

An architecture practice’s primary selling tool is its website. They showcase their work, personal information, and project details for prospective clients to see. The more impressive their website, the more clients they could attract.

Their website will give you an indication of their caliber, design ideas, and working process. You could also understand the architectural style they generally work with, the materials they are familiar with, and the construction methods they are used to working with.

Step 5: Find an Architect Who Listens to Your Ideas

When selecting an architect, make sure that they listen to your ideas and do not shut them down. During the initial discussion, a residential architect might suggest their options and that is great, but do not let them steer you away entirely from your initial thoughts.

Many homeowners get excited that their residential architect designed an excellent home. But in that process, do not compromise the essential design elements that you want to be included in your home.

Architects are professionals who are supposed to register the preliminary design ideas and then further on that with their expertise. They cannot force you into wanting something that you simply do not.

Always remember this!

Step 6: Find an Architect Who Understands Your Budget

Everyone cannot afford a house that is worth millions and that is okay. Designing your home will take a large amount of the overall budget. That is why it is essential to get it right and for you to be happy with it.

You must be quite sensible if you do not have unlimited funds to throw at the project. Do not go overboard with your money.

The best way is to be upfront with your residential architect and realistic about what could be achieved in that budget. Do not let the architect talk you into adding architectural features that are out of your budget.

When selecting a residential architect, make sure that they can handle your budget and are fully aware of the amount you are ready to spend on the project. Then it is the architect’s job to come up with a design that fits well within your means.

Now You Have Your Residential Architect!

Now that you have understood some golden rules, ensure that you follow them till the end. Your home is where you are going to stay for a long part of your life, build a family, stain the curtains, adopt a pet, and chip off the door handles. So it must be almost perfect.

Your home is your abode, and you must be happy with it. That is why choosing the best-suited residential architect for your home is a must. No compromises there.

So why not swipe right on a local architect and find out how to start with your home project.