Even if you have built a new home before, it’s not every day you hire an architect. So whether you have vague ideas on what you want or clear and concise ideas about your new project, it’s important to know what to expect when you meet with an architect.
The architect is an important partner in your renovation or new construction. They will bring your vision to life and create plans that the builder uses to create the final project from the ground up.
A new or remodeling project requires a considerable amount of planning before anything happens. So, it’s important that you are on the same playing field as an architect, since you will be working closely with them. It’s also important that you feel comfortable working with this individual because they will be very involved in your life, to a certain extent, for the duration of the project.
Answer The Question: What Do You Want?
This is probably the first question an architect will ask you during your first consultation. Because an architect will be making multiple decisions on your behalf, understanding who you are helps them to make those decisions wisely. You want to be prepared when you meet your architect to explain your vision.
For instance, if you meet with an architect and just say “we need a bigger house,” that doesn’t give them the complete picture of what you’re asking for. For example, if you are expanding your family, you just need more space for your family such as more bedrooms, a larger area for eating in, and maybe more room for comfortable entertaining. This type of explanation gives the architect a better idea of what you’re looking for in a new or renovated home. Your architect can then even expand on this given his/her experience and offer solutions you hadn’t considered.
You’ll also want to establish a budget to discuss with the architect, so they understand the financial parameters.
If you already have ideas, begin gathering them up and putting them in one place. A flash drive, a scrapbook, or even Google Docs, it’s a place where you just put everything together to pass them along in your first meeting. These ideas will also give the architect a sense of who you are, as well as what you ultimately want.
Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Your Own Questions
Of course, your first meeting with an architect isn’t just them asking questions. It’s a two-way conversation. Think of the first meeting as an “interview,” since you will both have questions, suggestions, and ideas. The architect wants to know If. You and your project are a good fit, the same way you are looking at them.
So, you should be ready to ask your own questions at the same time period. These questions can include:
• What services do you offer?
• What’s your fee structure?
• Do you have a specific builder or builders that you work with?
• Will we be able to communicate outside of office hours?
• Do you have a specific style you prefer?
Of course, these are just some of the questions you can ask your architect. It’s always important to make sure that both of you are on the same page, and that your architect will be able to produce what you want. Don’t be afraid to ask if you’re not sure about something. Chances are they’re happy to explain it to you.
Let Pro Draft Design Your Next Building Project
Pro Draft has been helping homeowners and business owners realize their design visions for over 30 years. We understand the unique nature of building in Maui and will work to make sure your renovations or new construction are exactly as you envisioned.
We can help with architecture, drawings, blueprints, permits, design work, and answer all your questions before the first day of construction. We’re happy to help and will work to ensure your project is exactly the way you envision.
Call Pro Draft today at (808) 579-9050 or 1-800-499-4699 from the Mainland
