Architects & Building Designers.

An architect or building designer can transform your needs and desires into a visual concept and habitable structure. They will help you determine what is possible in terms of your land and the budget you have, and then work with you to plan a home design that best caters to your lifestyle.

Architects and building designers have an extensive knowledge of architectural designs and trends, as well as construction methods and building materials, and are well versed in seeing the ‘bigger picture’. Depending on the architecture firm you hire, their scope of work can span project management and sustainable design for your renovation, to the selection of furniture and finishes. So whether you’re building from scratch, adding an extension or renovating your home, engage an architect or building designer to make your dream home a reality.

How do I find the best architect for my home design project?

It is best to hire a home architect or building designer who will be involved in all phases of the design process, from the initial concept to the completed construction. The architect is often the first person you will hire for your project. If necessary, they might also help you select and hire general contractors, which can include builders, engineers and landscape architects. Interior architects are also involved in negotiating contracts for all involved participants. It is for these reasons that it is extremely important for you to have a good relationship with the residential architect you hire. He or she can be the tie-breaking vote between you and the general contractor and can be your biggest advocate during the construction process.

As far as the process goes, the architecture firm that you choose will start with concept drawings and finish with construction drawings and documents. Some firms even design with 3D renderings and videos, but that should not be assumed. One of the most important duties of an architect is project management – that is, to serve as managers and supervise most aspects of construction, as well as facilitate communication between all other contractors.

It is very important to hire the right professional for the job. Remember that the most well-known or established architect or building designer might not provide the best architectural services for your needs. It all comes down to the individual project. Research and ask people whose work you like for recommendations. It's important to have an idea of the style of architecture you prefer, as well as the amount you would like to spend. Architects are natural problem solvers. They will assess the entire situation and help you to solve your problems too. Don't settle for a single company too early. Call and interview a few. Make sure that you feel like your personalities will mesh well and that you like their professional perspective.

Questions to ask prospective architects and building designers:

What is your fee structure?

What does the cost include?

Do you have professional liability insurance?

What types of renderings (3D, video, illustrative) will you produce?

What is your experience with similar projects?

When do you expect to start and be finished with the project?

What do your services include? (It's best that the services are until construction is completed.)

What happens when the cost exceeds the budget?

Can you provide me with references?

Would you say your work has a defining style? (This is important in case the architect's personal style will interfere with

your vision.)

Will you help with hiring general contractors and renovation contractors?

What do you estimate the cost will be?

What will I need to provide?

Are there any complications you foresee with this project?

Find a home architect or building designer on Houzz. To find the best architect or building designer for your house design or home improvement project, narrow your search in the Professionals section of the website to architect and building designer. Then browse professionals’ latest projects and read reviews.