Welcome back to the Ask the Architect column! This month’s question is a good one: “How do I know if a Long Beach architecture firm is right for me?” This is a great question to be asking prior to signing a contract with an architecture firm to design your commercial or residential project. Unfortunately, not everyone asks this question, and they can end up working with a firm that doesn’t meet their expectations.
The issue is usually that they pick an architecture firm based on referrals from others and/or the architect’s online portfolio. They don’t take the time to ask questions, get to know the people they will be working with, or learn about the firm’s process and approach to design.
Don’t let this happen to you!
Choosing the right Long Beach architect or architecture firm is a crucial step that will help determine the outcome of your project. You might be in a hurry to get your project underway, but don’t skip the process of meeting with the architects you are considering so you can find out which one will be the best fit for you and your project.
Here are four things to ask yourself before signing a contract with a Long Beach architecture firm:
Can I Communicate Well with the Architect I’ll Be Working With?
Communication is key to the architect-client relationship. You want to work with an architect who speaks in a language you can understand—who doesn’t leave you with more questions than answers after a conversation. You also want to make sure your architect is someone who will listen to your suggestions and concerns, and who takes the time to understand what you are really asking for.
Does He or She Seem Excited about My Project?
Not every architect is going to jump up and down with excitement, but the architect you work with should exhibit at least some level of enthusiasm about your project. At the very least, they should express interest in it. If they don’t—or if they act like they would be doing you a favor by taking on your project—you should move on. Perhaps your project is too small for them to care about, or it’s not the type of project they enjoy working on. If your project doesn’t seem to interest them, it likely won’t be a priority for them, and you’ll likely find yourself having to check in regularly to keep things moving.
Will the Architect Allow Me to Be as Involved in the Process as I Want to Be?
If you’re someone who wants to be heavily involved in the design process, make sure you work with an architect who will welcome your involvement. Not every architect enjoys a lot of suggestions, ideas, or feedback from their clients, but you won’t know if that’s the case unless you ask.
An architect who doesn’t like super involved clients probably won’t come right out and say so, so you may need to read between the lines a bit.
Is the Contract Clear, and Does It Include Everything I Need?
Once an architect provides you with a contract to review, make sure you actually read it! Is the cost and payment structure clear? Do you understand what you are getting for the cost? For example, will the architect take your plans through the approval process with the city, or is that on you? Will they work with your general contractor during the construction process, or do they see their job as complete once the plans are approved?
If something isn’t clear or there are things that aren’t mentioned that you would like included, make sure you ask about them. Never sign a contract with which you are uncomfortable or that you feel is incomplete.
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