Choosing the right commercial architect for a project can be challenging. After all, you want someone with enough experience and skill to help your dream materialize. And you also want to avoid the costly error of hiring someone without the right knowledge and expertise. Hiring the wrong person can set your project back by months – or even years – and you may still not be happy with the result.
In reality, working with any commercial architect requires a lot of trust, which is why it is vital to do your homework upfront. By asking the right questions and putting some time into researching your top options, you can feel far more confident that you have selected the right commercial architect for your project.
By considering the following items, you can narrow down your options to make a final decision on the right architect for your project.
Look at the types of buildings they design.
Commercial architects can design many types of commercial buildings, such as malls, office complexes, multi-family housing, hotels, clinical or educational facilities, museums, and restaurants, among others. And while theoretically, any commercial architect can design any commercial building, finding one specializing in the type of building you want will likely lead to a much more positive outcome. In many instances, even if you tried to hire an architect specializing in a specific building type for another project type, they may decline due to a lack of experience. In addition, different industries have different specifications, and some are even regulated. Given this, looking for architects with a track record in designing the type of building you want is one of the best ways to narrow down the field of candidates. And it’s the best way to ensure you have someone who will anticipate all the key details that will make your building functional, aesthetically pleasing, and on budget.
Consider those who can advise you on the project.
Sometimes, you may think you have a great idea, project, or location. But someone with more experience can foresee issues you may encounter and provide a better alternative. Commercial architects are more than project designers; they also serve in an advisory capacity throughout the project. You will want to find someone who can give you good advice on the following aspects of your project.
- The location
- Design and economic evaluation
- Purchasing/sourcing materials
- Optimizing the space
- Strategies to save energy
- Support for administrative procedures
- Monitoring the site throughout the build
- Verification and acceptance of work
Get to know them a bit more.
Asking the right questions up front can save you time and money throughout the project as it will weed out any incompatible candidates. But many people aren’t sure what to ask. The following questions may offer a great starting point.
- Could I see some of your recent work? Any reputable commercial architect can provide a portfolio of projects they have recently worked on, allowing you to get a sense of their style and experience with similar projects. In many instances, just by viewing their work, you can tell if they would have the right skills for your project.
- Do you have references? References are a great way to learn about the architect from their previous clients. In addition to seeing their work, it can be highly beneficial to understand how they interact with clients. This information can tell you if you can expect to get the level of support you expect from the architect.
- What is their timeline for the project? At the start of your project, you likely have a target end date in mind. However, different architects work at different rates. Some take more time than others. Additionally, some have higher workloads, which means they might not get working on your project immediately. Asking this question at the start of your project can help you narrow down the options, especially if some of the candidates can’t meet your timeline (although, if many of them can’t, you may want to figure out if your timeline is realistic for the scope of the project).
- What is the anticipated cost? Understanding the cost structure for each candidate can give you a good idea of whether they would be compatible with your budget. In addition to meeting your timeline, you will have to find a commercial architect that can work within your budget.
- Can they recommend a general contractor? Many architects working in a given geographical area have a great idea of the different contractors, their reputations, and the quality of work delivered. While it shouldn’t be a dealbreaker if your commercial architect can’t recommend a contractor (maybe you already have one in mind), it’s a good sign if they can be a source of referrals and recommendations.
- What technology do you use? The design process is complex. Fortunately, many modern tools and software platforms can make it easier, increasing the odds that your entire project is completed without major complications. While you may not want to know the in-depth details about how they develop designs, it’s good to have a general idea of how they will take your vision and help it materialize. This understanding can help you prepare your materials, construction team, and financial requirements.
- Who will be your project manager? This question may not apply when you work with smaller commercial architecture firms since they have a small staff. However, if you are considering larger firms, you will want to know who will lead the team and guide the project at the start of the project, as this person will be your primary contact.
Hiring a commercial architect is a process that can be filled with anxiety. After all, you have a vision and likely want it to take shape the way you already see it – with added benefits if it can be completed quickly and within your budget. But this only becomes possible if you select the right commercial architect for your project. Contact Jeffrey Jordan Architects, a reputable and reliable Hartsdale, NY architect, to learn more about commercial architects.
Located in the Greater New York area, Jeffrey Jordan Architect specializes in the design of high-end projects such as luxury apartment and townhouse renovations, schools, churches, temples, and offices.