Once you find an architect for a home improvement project, it’s essential that you interview. If he makes a favorable impression during the interview, you’ll then need to check architect references, confirm his architecture degree, and review his architectural portfolio. Completing all of these steps is the best way to ensure that the architect is the best match for your project.

The Architectural Portfolio

Architect portfolios should be available on request. An architectural portfolio contains photos and blueprints of an architect’s work. Architect portfolios let you see the architect’s work firsthand, and give you some idea of whether or not the architect is a good fit for your project.

Ideally, you should sit down with the architect when going through her architectural portfolio. Have her describe each project in the portfolio, and ask questions about the architectural process. Look for architect portfolios with projects that match your own needs and personal tastes (although remember that a good architect can work in multiple styles).

Architect portfolios should display an architect’s versatility, creativity, and talent. An architectural portfolio where each project looks the same suggests that the architect is very set in his or her ways, and possibly unwilling to adapt to your needs.

Verifying an Architecture Degree

Architects must receive a postsecondary architecture degree to work. When you find an architect, verify that he does indeed possess an architecture degree. Architects should also be licensed with the state and provide their license number to prospective clients. Check with the state Office of Consumer Affairs to confirm that the architect’s license is in good standing.

Many architects belong to professional associations. One of the most prestigious architect associations in the country is the American Institute of Architects, which has strict standards for its members. You can confirm an architect’s membership in a professional association by contacting the association or searching the organization’s web site.

Checking Architect References

Follow up on all architect references. It’s not enough to assume that if an architect can provide references, that they’ll be positive. Call every architect reference you can and ask detailed questions about the architect.

If possible, ask architect references if you can tour the work created by the architect. If not, it helps to write down a list of questions to ask architect references and ask each reference the same questions. This makes it easier to determine how well an architect served previous clients. Questions to ask architect references include:

• Did the architect explain the design process clearly?
• Did the architect’s fees reflect initial estimates?
• How easy was it to communicate with the architect?
• What type of work did the architect provide?
• Were there problems dealing with the architect?
• Would the reference hire the architect again?

It takes time to find an architect that fits your needs. If there are concerns about architect references or portfolios, ask the architect for an explanation. If you’re not satisfied with the answer, it’s best to keep looking until you find an architect you can trust.