Before you can pick a designer or architect, you have to know where to find one. Ask your family members, friends, co-workers, and acquaintances for recommendations. Many designers and architects work primarily by word-of-mouth, relying on referrals from satisfied customers rather than advertising heavily.
When looking for a designer, visit designer showcases and model homes. This allows you to preview the designer’s work and find one whose style you like. You can also contact the American Society of Interior Designers for a referral (800-775-ASID, or search their on-line database).
When looking for an architect, notice buildings and homes in your area that you like, then find out the name of the architect for that project. Even if that particular architect isn’t available for your project, he or she might be able to refer you to someone else who does similar work. Also, contact The American Institute of Architects. Many local branches of this organization maintain databases of local architects and can give you a referral.
Finally, you can find both designers and architects by searching in your local phone book or on-line. Once you’ve found three or four possible designers or architects, then you can begin interviewing.
The first step in selecting a good designer or architect is to have a clear idea of what you want. Clip pictures from design or architecture magazines, draw sketches, and snap pictures of your favorite personal belongings---these will all help your potential designer or architect to understand your style. Also, do your homework. Read as much as you can about design or architecture so that you will be able to communicate with candidates in the terms and lingo of their field.
When you first meet your potential candidates in person, expect to see a portfolio, usually either print or slides. As you examine the samples of the candidate’s work, ask yourself the following questions: Does this person have a set style? Does the portfolio reflect a variety of styles? If he or she seems to work in just one style, is it a style that you would choose for yourself?
Discuss your budget with the candidate and make sure that you see examples of work within that budget range. A designer or architect who has only done high-end work might not be able to adapt to a lower budget.
Find out the candidate’s design or architecture philosophies. How involved will he or she allow you to be? Some designers and architects will want you to stay out of the process, whereas others welcome your input and comments every step of the way. It is important that you allow your designer or architect creative flexibility; otherwise, there’s no point in hiring someone else to design for you! However, it’s equally important that you speak up if you truly dislike a design decision, because you are going to have to live with that decision in the end. Whether you want to be very involved or want to leave the entire project up to the designer or architect, make sure that the two of you are compatible in this area before you start a project with that person.
It is vital in the interview to clarify the designer’s or architect’s billing methods. Some designers and architects charge on an hourly basis plus materials, some charge flat rates for certain projects, and others use a combination of fee schedules. Some individuals will charge for the initial interview. Some designers will provide you with consultation and then allow you to complete the project, whereas others will not provide those services. Make sure that you receive a clear estimate and understand the candidate’s fee schedules before you make a decision.
After you have interviewed all of the candidates, spend several days weighing the pros and cons of working with each individual. Make lists of the things that you like and dislike about each candidate. Decide which items are non-negotiable for you and which items you can take or leave. You might decide that cost is the most important factor for you, or you might decide that a close personal connection is vital. Whatever your reasons are, remember that you will be working closely with this individual for many months, and you will have to live with the creative decisions that he or she makes. Therefore, choose your designer or architect wisely.
Finally, when you have chosen a candidate and he or she has accepted the job, make sure to put your agreement in writing! Written contracts spell out both parties’ intentions and protect all people involved in the project. Most designers and architects have standard contracts, or you can contact the American Society of Interior Designers or The American Institute of Architects for contract advice.
