How To Choose the Right Architect

When choosing the best architect for your residential or commercial project…

…there are many things to consider. First and foremost is to identify what the purpose of the building will be. Make a list of key features and what your needs are. Look at similar buildings and identify a style that you gravitate towards. Then look for an architect who will be able to fulfill the style, purpose and key features. At Genesis Architecture, we specialize in Organic, Usonian, Modern, Prairie, Arts & Crafts, and Traditional architecture when designing homes, businesses, and community buildings for the Greater Milwaukee, Racine, Chicago, and Madison areas as well as Florida, Arizona, and across the country.

When researching architects, the first thing to browse is the architect's website and to review their architectural portfolio. Look for things that match up with your project, such as space, room layouts and windows. Most architects will have a specialization with which they are most experienced. Look at their unique qualities and see if they line up with your needs and style.

Once you have decided to meet with an architect for your residential or commercial project, ask their opinion. Listen to their response to your plan and what they would want to add or change to your design ideas. Be open and honest about your desires in a design. Don’t be afraid to give feedback and state your concerns. It’s best to have open communication with the architect right from the start. You will be working with them closely and spending a lot of time together.

It’s important that your vision and your architect’s vision are in line with each other. Talk about budgeting goals and concerns. Do they have a history of staying within their client's budget? If not, what were the issues and how did they resolve them? Get references for an accurate indication of what it’s like to work with that particular architect.

Ask them how involved you will be in the development process. How much of your time will be requested to give direction on things such as materials, how something will look, or issues that arise? That way you will have a clear expectation of their needs as well.

Choosing an architect is an exciting time. Go into the process well-researched, be patient, and ask plenty of questions. The time spent on choosing the right architect will be a long process but always worthwhile. Your relationship with your architect is critical to the success of the project.

Contact our team at Genesis Architecture for your Organic, Usonian, Modern, Prairie, Arts & Crafts, and Traditional architecture needs for homes, businesses, and places of interest in Milwaukee, Racine, Madison, Waukesha, Chicago, Florida, Arizona, and all across the country. We look forward to meeting with you!