How to Choose an Architect

It is a fact that most clients only commission one building in their lifetime although their need for specialist advice in the care, maintenance and adaptation of that building may be more necessary than at first thought. Architects are tremendous lateral thinkers and their skills now stretch way beyond the traditional design and administration of building projects, as a glance at the Directory will reveal

The purpose of the ACA Directory is only to assist at the initial point of contact. A successful client/architect relationship can only arise out of a dialogue, which in turn leads to a successful rapport between the parties.

An architect, you may think, is simply somebody who designs a building and administers its construction. Whilst this may well be the type of service required by many clients, there are many other specialised skills that architects; some have specialised in detailed knowledge of planning law, some are experts in acoustic or lighting performance, others can appraise building failures, assess space requirements or undertake measured surveys.

Whatever skills you as a client require, the selection of your architect is of the greatest importance. If you require a building, you must recognise from the outset that to commission a building is a major undertaking which can both be interesting and gratifying, provided that you choose your architect well. Your architect is the key to a successful contract in terms of design, quality, cost and time.

The selection of an architect for a specific skill requires no less care - not only should the architect have a mastery of the expertise you require, he should, above all be someone with whom you get on well.

From the Directory, you should be able to identify those who specialise in the particular building type or other expertise you require. Some architects will work only within the Region they are based whilst others will be able to practice nationally or even internationally. If you have knowledge of particular firms, choose amongst those whose works you like and who have sufficient experience. You may wish to include in your list some of the smaller and younger practices that can offer a particular enthusiasm and dedication that only the young can offer.

Consult your friends and business acquaintances but avoid hearsay and listen only to those with first hand experience.

Once you have established a short list, check any references which may be available from past clients, occupiers or users; interview any partners or directors and key personnel and satisfy yourself that both the firm and individuals can give your problem the detailed attention it deserves. Above all, perhaps, decide whether you can actually work with the people concerned.

Your final selection should not be too difficult. Do not under any circumstances make your selection on the basis of the cheapest fee quoted. Compared to the lifetime costs of a building, for example, the architect's fee is an infinitesimal proportion. Far more importantly you should assess the added value that the architect of your choice can achieve; if you and your architect can work productively and well together, the result can easily be more than the sum of your individual contributions.