Over many years, hundreds of architects, builders, and designers—and most importantly, homeowners—have told many stories about their experiences building a custom-designed home. Most of these stories are positive, but some are not. Their stories have shaped the following tips.
Whether your design or construction aspirations are small or large, getting to the middle of a project and realizing you need more resources can be overwhelming. Many individuals choose to hire an architect when they want to know that the project is in the hands of an expert or they know that there are limits to what they can personally provide.
When deciding whether or not an architect is a way to go for your next project, take some time to consider the following five (5) things you need to understand before hiring an architect.
Tip #1. Understanding the Experts. Hiring an outside professional in any capacity takes a certain amount of open-mindedness. However, when considering hiring an architect, you must understand the flexibility required in projects. Architects are trained professionals who have spent years studying building codes, interior, and exterior design, structural integrity, etc. Architects are hired with a wealth of knowledge to contribute, so be willing to listen and take their expert advice. Having an explicit understanding of what you want for final results will help, but being open to professional suggestions will create a smooth path to successful project completion.
Tip #2. Take Timeline Into Consideration. Architects must have the pieces in place before they begin, which means work would start later. A timeline will have to be established initially, and you may not like the length of that time frame. In addition, issues such as building rights must be determined before your project can truly take off. Please expect variations in this timeline to accommodate great work, but it is lengthy, with many hops to jump through. Remodeling or building a home requires a lot of well-planned time constraints. If you plan to hire a pro, do your research first and allow yourself and your contractor enough time to do the job correctly.
Tip #3. Balance The Budget Beforehand. Hiring professional help does cost, and hiring an architect is no exception to the rule. To avoid delays or confusion along the way, be sure to have your budgetary requirements set from the start. Discuss these with the architect and ask if they can work within those constraints. Knowing where you draw limits and how the project will be paid out is also essential. Remember, keep realistic expectations about the project’s time, as this can affect the budget.
Tip #4. It Will Get Messy. Architects are in the business of building. However, demolishing inevitably precedes the creation. This means things can get messy. Discuss the demolition process and how your residence will be affected and protected before the project starts. Will you have to move out for a while (causing your budget to be blown)? Will there be early morning noise interruptions? When do they end their work day? All of these things should be considered. Here are some suggested questions for every architect you plan to hire.
Tip #5. Dedication To The Details. Architects are generally creative minds, but they are also business oriented; therefore, it is expected that the contracts will be full of details and documentation. It is vital to get on board with strict documentation to protect yourself and your architect before you decide to hire one. Once everything is in writing, both parties feel more secure and safe to proceed with plans. Depending on the job, there can be a lot of details to work out before a project begins, so be patient and do not rush it. A rushed job is never a successful job.
On the other hand, try to get a hold of Ronald Lee Harden’s Untold Architectural Black History of Tampa, Florida: My 36-Year Architectural Career in Tampa book for inspiration. It talks about the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, Gaither and Bloomingdale High Schools, the Harbour Island project, Mobley Park, and Osbourne Landing Apartments. These are just a few of the projects architectural project manager Ronald L. Harden has been a part of that have helped the Tampa community expand economically and culturally in 36 years. These projects have helped create homes, jobs, and cultural events for the city’s African-American and other mixed communities and helped them make better lives for themselves.
In Closing
Once you have taken the time to consider all the facts, hiring an architect should be a smooth process. If you have found someone you are comfortable with who creates clear lines of communication and wants the best for you and your project, there is no reason not to expect a beautiful result.
To Sam It All Up 