Seeking Solutions

As experienced and professional Architects, we often have clients coming to us seeking solutions to their design problems. Sometimes it is related to functional issues like getting more usable space or create a higher occupancy within a certain confine. Often it is code compliant related where a client is trying to get a specific use from a built structure or even to get something rezoned to accommodate a new end user. There are even those times when a client is seeking a great looking design - pure aesthetics - so we get to work our magic and come up with a new look for an old thought.

However there are times that a client comes to us and asks...HELP! We made a terrible mistake and cannot find a solution. What do we do? That happens when a client has hired an irresponsible architect, designer or builder that has promised them something impossible. This is so irritating to me. I hate when people are taken advantage of, it makes us all look bad in the profession and creates doubt in the consumers mind. I would do anything to help these people find a resolution, after all that is what we do. Unfortunately, fixing a mistake like this usually costs the client more money and in most cases we cannot use anything that was performed previously. A complete waste of time and money. We have to start from scratch. We have to create a confidence that was so ruefully broken by others. We have to create excitement to something that has become an uneasy task now. We have to show them how they should have been treated originally and not used. All of these tasks are not easy and takes extra care and attention to make our new client feel confident once again. Trust once broken is very difficult to rebuild, even if it wasn't your fault to begin with.

Here are a 7 STEPS to take into account before you begin your next project:

1. Research your designer to determine if they have had any experience with your type of project in the past. It isn't necessary for them to have 100 projects of this type, after all you do not want to be just another number to this firm.
2. Determine a clear scope of what work will be required. Have it outlined in the proposal provided to you. Don't use just a handshake, get a signed agreement. AIA contracts are the most detailed and equally balanced between owner and architect.
3. Set up your project to be paid in progress payments. A retainer is expected, but certainly do not provide the entire amount unless the project is completed 100%. Monthly progress payment can be issued should the project be a lengthy one extending over several months.
4. Get an expected time frame from your designer. A clear expectation by both parties should be understood before work begins. Some areas of service may be predetermined due circumstances beyond either's control. Surveys, rezoning, variance hearings, drawing reviews and others may delay the project if not properly planned for or anticipated.
5. Find out if the principal of the firm is going to be involved in the work or is it going to be handed off to an intern. Involvement from a principal is most desired at some level.
6. Don't cut your services short. Many times the owner will limit the services necessary for a designer to properly perform their services. For instance, Contract Administration is a valued service that insures the designer has provided guidance and instruction through the completion of the project's construction. Yes there is a fee, but a VERY important cost that many owner feel, "They can handle it themselves."
7. Does your designer have professional liability insurance, current professional licenses or even if they belong to local professional organizations.

Seeking Solutions is what you are looking for. Don't cut yourself short without properly preparing yourself first. If you would like an opinion, feel free to give us a call, we would be happy to guide you through not only the first steps of your project but walk with you all the way to the end. Customer satisfaction is what we pride ourselves in my friends....even when others don't.