I'm a licensed architect in Colorado, and I'm still amazed how difficult it
can be in finding an architect (let alone a good one).
You hit on a good point about talking to people who deal with architects,
and the people who are reviewing the construction documents should have a
very good feel as to which architect knows what he or she is doing.
I would suggest also talking to people you know that run their own
businesses, because at some point they most likely dealt with an architect
for designing the space their business is in. There's a decent chance that
their architect also works on houses.
At some point selecting an architect is going to take a leap of faith. The
design and construction of your house can be a long and arduous process. so
personal chemistry and trust between you and your architect is very
important.
Finding a Good Architect
Summary: Finding a good architect may take some
research. Architects receive little residential training. To locate a good
residential architect, follow this little known technique.
Related Articles: Construction Bids, Construction Estimates, Avoid Over Budget Plans
Hiring Architects
Most people don't realize that architects receive very little training in school concerning residential construction. Architects learn this themselves, for the most part, once they get out into the working world. You need to find a seasoned residential architect for your job.
Here are a few ways to do just this. Call the major lumber companies in your town. Most of them have people who prepare estimates for builders and remodelers from blueprints. These individuals see a full range of plans. As such, they tend to know who draws a complete, well thought-out plan.
Ask the architects themselves what percentage of their work is residential. Talk to past clients. Ask if the plans were accurate. Look for details on the blueprints. These are little side drawings showing exploded views of things in your job. Look for door, window and room finish schedules. These are necessary for a complete set of drawings.
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