Architect

The role of the architect is possibly the most exciting, and certainly the most creative.  The architect’s work is a reflection of your taste and an expression of who you are, so the selection of your architect is more an interpersonal connection than it is a professional hire.

An important aspect of hiring an architect is understanding there are three types; commercial, commercial that fill their time with some residential design, and residential.  Contacting a commercial architect for your residential job is a waste of their time & yours.  Commercial architects who accept residential work, in my opinion, are not committed to residential work.  Do you want your project to be filler for their overhead absorption between the commercial jobs they’re focused on?

When looking for a residential architect, I believe the most important facet of the selection is design taste.  An architect will tell you they reflect the client’s taste in design, but I truly believe an architect successful in log homes is not the best fit for modern chic design.  Before shopping architectural talent, it seems logical to know and understand what you want?

An important facet of your plan is understanding as best you can your budget in terms of cost per square foot.  Your selection of an architect will be more successful if you align your budget with the caliber of design in the architect’s portfolio.

Finally, in my view a key to success is selecting an architect with the technical expertise your plan will require.  If you’re planning a solar home, with energy efficient technology, some architects are more skills with these features than others, and the landowner is best served giving attention to these areas of expertise.

For Julie and I the answer is Craftsmen style, Stickley furniture, and Tiffany lamps, in a solar powered energy efficient home.  When you compile a list of architects with a portfolio of design you appreciate, the next step is meeting with them, discussing their work, sharing your project plans and making that interpersonal connection.  Julie and I have selected Joseph Mosey, R.A. and his firm Joseph Mosey Architect, Inc., and he has agreed to accept our project.