Working with an Architect
From first design sketch on the proverbial napkin to the last brush of paint on the finished walls, a construction project is as exciting as it is complex. It is a lengthy process with lots of players involved. Working with a competent, knowledgeable architect can save many headaches, as well as time and money. Here is what to expect on the exhilarating journey from design to project completion, and what the architect’s role is in each of the phases.
Pre-Design
It is worth engaging the architect early on, before your building site is selected. The architect can provide an evaluation of the project’s feasibility, including zoning and code analysis, architectural survey of existing conditions and review of the client’s programmatic requirements.
In this phase, the architect will also assist the client in selecting required consultants such as a mechanical engineer, structural engineer or code consultant. It is advisable to engage consultants that have previously completed successful projects with the archi-tect, but it is not a requirement. In case of new consultants, the architect will perform due diligence by checking the consultant’s background and references.
