7 June 2011
“The dialogue between client and architect is about as intimate as any conversation you can have, because when you are talking about building a house, you’re talking about dreams” Robert A. M. Stern – architect
- Of course, this applies to all projects, big and small…
- Choose an architect based not only on their previous work but also on how well you feel you will be able to work with them and how well they listen to you. Good communication skills are essential and it’s a long journey from design to completion.
- Ask for references, talk to previous clients to get a feel for how the architect performed during the all different stages of the project.
- Prepare a detailed, written brief for your project taking into account both your current and long-term needs. State all your heart’s desires!
- Think of this brief in terms of issues, not solutions. It is the architect’s job to prepare solutions based on these issues and your needs.
- Where you are planning an extension, take the opportunity to ensure that the extension and existing house will ultimately work together to meet all of your needs and answer all of your identified issues. Make sure your existing house is working as hard as possible!
- Agree in writing before commencing design work all details regarding to the fee being charged. This should include the amount, at what stages it will be due, what exact services are included and how any unanticipated input and changes will be charged.
- Include the cost of these fees in your overall building budget. Expect to recoup the outlay in many years enjoyment of a space sculpted to your precise needs, now and into the future.
- As the design develops, make sure you understand exactly what is being proposed, at all stages.
- Architect’s drawings are frequently crowded with a large amount of information and symbols which can make it difficult to “see” exactly what is being proposed. The first thing I do when asked to review architect’s proposals is to prepare a set of plans with just the room outlines so that I can more easily evaluate the proposals. So request a set of “clean” plans at every stage including construction so that you know what spaces are being proposed.
- If you have difficulty understanding 2 dimensional drawings (plans, sections and elevations) request 3 dimensional sketches or rough models.
- Buy a scale rule and learn how to use it! You will then be able to acquaint yourself with both the general and particular details of the project, from room sizes to fitted furniture. Compare proposed room sizes with rooms you are familiar with.
- Stay focussed and attentive at all stages. Once you have agreed the overall scheme of things, you will be required to sign off on a staggering range of detail as the project progresses to site. These will all be of huge importance to you in the long run, so devote the considerable time and energy required to make sure it all meets your needs.
- It may be tempting, especially if you get worn by the stress of a building project, to trust detailed design decisions to your architect but only you can judge what best meets your precise needs.
- For more advice and information about professionally qualified architects in Ireland, visit www.riai.ie.
