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Seeking a modern architect for your project? The goal of this directory is to pre-screen legitimate modern architects in your area to help narrow your search. We have taken to the time to sift through all of the clutter to bring you the best of the best. Of course, it is up to you to decide from there. The following steps will guide you in finding the best modern architect for your project.
1. First and foremost, you will need to communicate effectively with your architect. If your project requires an architect, then you will likely spend copious time reviewing ideas, design philosophy, and
developing plans with this person, so interview several candidates to make sure that you identify someone with whom you are comfortable communicating.
2. To start your list of potential modern architects, request architectural references from well-designed spaces that you aesthetically admire - friend's homes, boutiques, restaurants, online real estate listings, etc.
3. When you have identified a list of potential architects (at least 5-7 firms), call or email them to discuss their design philosophy and areas of notable expertise. If they meet your initial criteria, then
inquire further about their project history and architectural staff - how many architects are on staff and which ones were responsible for the specific projects you noted. Do they have an online portfolio or before/after photographs of successfully architected projects?
4. Request at least 3 references from each architect and/or architectural firm. Call each reference and ask candid questions. Inquire about overall project success, how did the architectural plans
translate to the actual construction of the space, strengths and weaknesses of architect, what they would have changed within the architectural process, etc.
5. Request information on the architect's licensing and other credentials such as affiliation with the AIA (American Institute of Architects) or the ASLA (American Society of Landscape Architects). A
licensed, registered architect (RA) will have different education and training than a certified building designer (CPBD).
6. As you narrow the list, meet with each architect to check out their communication style and gauge whether this may be a good fit for you and your project (verify in advance if there are fees associated with an initial meeting).
7. In order to make the most informed decision between a few contending architects, meet with each of them at the project space (if applicable, or have them do a top level sketch) and witness them thinking on their feet about how they have interpreted your architectural needs and how their architectural philosophy and space planning could accommodate your goals.
8. When you have narrowed your choices to a few qualified architects, request project estimates and approximate timelines for a project of your scope. At this point, you should be well informed to make a decision on your architect. Remember to review all previous criteria and collected material to make the most informed overall decision.
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