New Architect Hunt

The search for a new architect started last night. First things first, we really need to think about the product of an architect and evaluate whether that's something we want to work into the budget.

An architect is really more of a concept aggregator. The usual process requires the sponsor of the project to do little more than loosely guide the architect's direction, and then respond to the proposals with appreciation or redirection. That was the rub with our quitters (see last post). They wanted to be more of a design lead, where we wanted to really guide the design in a hands-on fashion.

The alternative is to work with a design-build company, or to go straight to a construction company and work with their designers. Basically, it's the same workflow, but they vary based on whether the designer or the contractor own the company. This is good because it saves money for people coming in with plans, but it doesn't work as well if your ideas aren't 100% fleshed out.

So last night we talked to an architecture firm that morphed from a design-build shop to a straight-up architecture firm. They are definitely good, they have a good sense of taste and seem to enjoy getting as much input from the customer as possible. We need them. While we have the room divisions and outer structure all conceptualized, the physical space and the interior fixtures aren't my bag. The alternative option to hire a design-builder or a contractor with a design sub-contractor won't work for this. They'd be basically designing what they intend to build, which doesn't provide for us the strength of having an advocate for our design ride out the construction process.

We have an appointment Friday to meet with such a contractor, who comes with strong references from a co-worker, and we'll see whether we want to work with them, and in what capacity. Right now, I'm leaning toward sailing with this 2nd architecture firm, and finding a contractor with an understanding of the more modern construction techniques. More on Friday after our meeting...