7 Essential Questions to Ask Before Hiring an Architect

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By: Oliver Marks
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Hiring an architect for your remodel is an important step. Where to begin? Here are essential questions to ask candidates, and the answers they should give.

Effort: High 3-6 mos added to job
Investment: High $5,000-$20,000 (on $100,000 job)

2. Do you have a signature style?

Most architects pride themselves on their adaptability, which allows them to tailor their style to fit each house and client.

But some have an overriding design sensibility that they bring to every project. It’s not that all their jobs look the same, just that certain motifs show up again and again. For example, an architect might specialize in sleek modernism, a beach cottage feel, or reinterpretations of historic houses. Others may focus on environmentally friendly construction or universal design.

By talking about the architect’s signature style up front, you can decide whether it’s the right fit for you.

Next: 3. Who will design my project?

Oliver Marks

A former carpenter and newspaper reporter, Oliver Marks has been writing about home improvements for 16 years. He’s currently restoring his second fixer-upper with a mix of big hired projects and small do-it-himself jobs.

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Bryan, thanks for weighing in about the fee structure for architects. We agree that your own fee structure is fairly typical and covers many situations. However, some architects do charge more for additional services, such as acting as advisers throughout construction. Also, well-known architects tend to command premium prices that put them around the 20% figure. We presented the entire range in a summary. Your input helps clarify what folks might expect to pay for an architect's services.
Posted by HouseLogic on April 10, 2013

20% is a lot. I'm not saying you are wrong because I have not met every architect out there and know how they structure their fee. But I've been practicing for 20yrs and have never heard of anyone getting more than 10%, which is what I would charge for a high end complex home. Typically I structure a 'not to exceed flat fee' from 4% - 7% of the consrtuction budget. Then clarify what will be considered 'additional services' if a client repeatedly changes their mind. Also, if you have an architect who gets a cut of the material costs, go find another one. Part of an architect's role is as the owner agent and advocate by ensuring quality and value. Getting a cut of the materials is a conflict of interest. But hey, I'm not always right.
Posted by bryan on March 19, 2013

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