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how do I choose an architect in NZ?

Selecting an architect is a similar process to selecting an artist for a commissioned artwork. Examine what type of artwork you like, assess scale, budget, medium and context for the artwork location. Explore artists who seem aligned with your ideas, passions and interests.

Selecting an Architect is very much the same process. Researching an architect’s past projects, who they are and what seems like a good fit for your situation.

researching an architect

Reading articles of published works is potentially your best source of information. This should provide visual and textual information on the practice to examine how they resolve particular design problems. Review their online portfolio, look for projects that align with your vision and style. Also read reviews and references, look for client testimonials. Additionally, ask for references and talk to past clients about their experiences with the architect if possible.

Word of mouth is how business is often conducted within New Zealand.  This may not always lead to the best fit of “client / architect” relationship  “Who you know, rather than what you know” may not always provide the best outcome. You really want the best architect for your situation / interests etc.

Architecture awards are a gauge to indicate peer accolades and acknowledgement of achievements. This is a fairly reliable demonstration of excellence within the architectural profession.

check qualifications

Ensuring the firms are who you think they are. This is particularly important within New Zealand. Often an ‘architectural designer’ (called ‘building designer’ in Australia) can give you the impression they are an architect. It can be confusing as both designers use the word ‘architect’ or a derivative of it. There is however a difference in study, experience, level of service, code of conduct, and fees between an architectural designer and an architect. I am writing a blog on this topic and will link once completed.

set up a meeting

Meet with the potential architect to discuss your project. This is a good time to gauge their communication style, professionalism, and understanding of your vision. You want to see if they would be a good fit for you and your project. The ideal architect is one you feel comfortable with and confident in their abilities. Afterall, you be engaging their services for quite some time. Trust your instincts, a good rapport can make the design process smoother.

define your needs

A clear, well-defined brief outlining your requirements (budget, timeline, building type) is an important document to create. This is something an architect can work through with you to help effectively communication your needs. This might evolve during the design process but you will need a starting point.

architectural fees

Understand how architects charge (fixed fee, hourly rate, percentage of the project cost) and ensure their fees fit within your budget. Get a detailed estimate.

However, your decisions should not be based solely on price as this could potentially end in a lesser outcome than desired.

some of the pitfalls of selecting an architect on fee price alone can include:

– It can be difficult ensuring you are comparing the same level of services from different architects

– A smaller practice will likely be cheaper than a large practice (who have higher overheads.)

– Generally, you get what you pay for.

– The more time spent on a project the better the outcome, the more defined a project is reduces the risk of unexpected variations.

architectural practice size

The size of the architecture practice can make a difference as follows:

large architectural practice

With larger firms your project is divided up to different workers and the architect you meet with will not be doing all the work. Whilst normal practice if correspondence is not handled well this can have a potential for a ‘lost in translation’ moment. However, larger practices are very well suited to very large projects (often not residential though).

small architectural practice

With a small size firm the person you deal with will likely be the same person who designs, research’s and documents everything. A smaller practice can often be more flexible in their approach and accommodating client’s specific requirements. However small practices may need to go in collaboration with larger firms to undertake very large commissions.

enjoyment of the process

The act of creating architecture should be a fulfilling, enjoyable and uplifting process. Selecting the right team is a critical first step in the journey. Get this right and you are well on your way to enjoying a beautifully designed considered environment.

But what is the different between an architect and an architectural designer? – see link here