How to choose the right architect

Wherever you are in the world, choosing the right architect for your property project can be a daunting task. He or she will be the leader of whatever is in your mind!

Of course, if you are in Bali or even Jakarta, we will be able to pinpoint you in the right direction because we work with many talented architects on private or commercial projects. But if you’re anywhere else, this guide will help you to choose the best architect for the project of your dreams.

Ocean Palm villa with Kaltimber products

How well-versed in the design process are you? What kind of structure do you want to construct? Do you already have a particular look in mind or are you looking for ideas? What is the project's size? 

Make your own architect mind mapping choice

Your conception of the traits that make a great architect may be influenced by a variety of questions and their accompanying traits, which can be:

  • Creativity: The alternatives they consider are compared to the project's needs by creative thinkers.

  • Resourcefulness: You need a team that will identify obstacles early and find a way to go around them.

  • Technical Focus: technically oriented architects are better equipped to clearly describe the job in bid documents, resulting in the most reasonable and accurate cost possible.

  • Foresight: early on in the project, good architects will set up goals to ensure that everyone in the team is working toward the same goals.

  • Collaboration: having an architect with a good collaboration mindset will keep you in control when you have queries along the road.

  • Construction Savvy: you need someone whose knowledge extends beyond design because the contracting team that will construct the project is one of the greatest unknown project success factors.

Other things to consider will be known when you discuss the project with the potential architects. Think about addressing the following:

  • What is your signature style? 

You may assess whether you like the architect's distinctive style by discussing it up front.

  • Who Will Design My Project?

It's likely that the individual you first meet won't be the one doing the real design work, so you shall ask to meet the appointed lead architect on your project.

  • Are Three-Dimensional Drawings Available?

The age of “hard to read” 2D design is kind of gone. But not for everyone! The majority of architects now employ software to create 3-D images that can be rotated and viewed from various perspectives.

  • Do You Offer Any Project Management Services?

Architects are capable of more than just creating the plans and designs, but you need to make sure what their other capabilities are prior to hiring them. 

  • What is your billing approach?

Ask the architect what proportion of the project cost they would charge, as well as when and how payments are expected. That way, you will be able to better budget your milestones. 

  • Can you recommend contractors?

You might want to read our previous article answering this precise question about decking (but adaptable), then match with what your architect would have told you. That way, the decision-making should be easier.