Your architect is responsible for crafting the future of your home, so it’s crucial that you choose one with whom you can communicate effectively and work well together. An ideal architect should help understand your vision, translate it into reality that meets expectations, budget and timeline constraints while managing construction efficiently. They should possess both expertise and experience to address any obstacles along the way and efficiently oversee construction processes.

Ask any potential architects you are interviewing for references from past clients – these will give you valuable information about their communication, project management abilities, timeline adherence, contract compliance and aesthetic. If possible visit some buildings they have designed or renovated directly so you can see their work and gain an appreciation of its aesthetics.

Although it may seem superficial, assessing an architect’s style is an essential part of selecting a suitable one for your project. While no designer should be expected to meet every client’s tastes perfectly, their stylistic tendencies will likely show through in their work; therefore, selecting an architect who shows consistent design approach within their portfolio that also appeals to your own tastes is ideal.

Once you have narrowed down your shortlist of prospective architects, arrange an introductory phone call or in-person meeting. Be prepared to discuss the scope of your project as well as provide any photos or magazine clippings from magazines you have collected; while some designers may object to receiving an abundance of ideas in one go, this meeting gives you an opportunity to demonstrate that you have given careful thought and planning into how your program will operate.

At your initial meeting, you will be able to assess both professionalism and chemistry between yourself and the prospective candidate. Although some projects can be successfully completed with less-than-ideal matches, finding your perfect partner should always be your top priority.

After your initial face-to-face meeting, you should have a better grasp of the scope of your project and be able to narrow down your list to two or three architects. Once you’ve identified potential candidates, visit their office/showroom so you can assess their workspaces and gauge team culture.

Residential architects must deliver forward-thinking designs that add value across various aspects of life, such as designing penthouses in the clouds or renovating historic brownstones, outfitting downtown lofts or outfitting luxury penthouses in the sky. Their designs must enhance lifestyle, wellbeing and emotional attachment. By following these tips you are sure to find your ideal match architect!