Tampa Architect Jim Finch

Considerations when looking to hire an architect

Choosing the right home architect is a vital 'cog' in planning your dream home or home addition/ remodel. The following are a few things for you to consider when it comes time to hiring the right home architect.

Your architect should be reputable and professional with at least a few years of design and business experience. A degree in architecture with education in architectural history is a plus. Communication between the client and architect is key to developing the right design. Look for an architect who will work with you directly, as opposed to one who will pass on your project to a drafter. If you encounter a phone tree when calling an architect, you might want to shop elsewhere. Designing your home has it's personal side and there's little room for impersonal business tactics. It's imperative that your architect return phone calls and e-mails in a timely manner.

Your architect should listen to your design ideas and give honest feedback. There are many parts of the process that drive the design. Square footage, design style, open spaces versus more segmented areas, relation of spaces to outdoor spaces, energy efficient design, and your budget to name a few. Initially, your ideas need not be fully developed. Also, you need not be a scholar in architectural history to define the style you're looking for. Photos (personal or from magazines) are, in my opinion, the best tool to start the style conversation. It's the job of the architect to transform your initial ideas into a tangible design that conform with your budget.

It's important that you are able to communicate and feel comfortable with the home architect you select. A home architect that fully explores your ideas is more equipped to present you with the house design that is consistent with your needs and vision. If you meet resistance or lack communication during the initial consultation, you should seek a consultation with a different home architect.

Your architect should be willing to talk about previous projects and the level of customer satisfaction. Examples of your architect's work should be available, either in portfolio form or on his/ her website.

When hiring a home architect, pricing is not always the primary consideration. The cheapest architect may not be the best for your situation. The cost of architectural services is a minor portion of the complete house budget, and a competent, professional architect is critical to getting the best design and bang for your buck. Our design pricing at Jim Finch Architecture tends to be middle of the road, and I get positive feedback from clients after the projects are completed. Testimonials to our service are available on this web site.

Competent architectural design in Florida addresses a number of practical issues in conjunction with floor plans and exterior style. The practical issues listed above rarely limit what the owner wants in terms of floor plans and exterior style. Jim Finch Architecture has the experience and communication skills to provide your ideal design.

• New home design

• Design home additions

• Design home remodels

• Floor plan design

• Exterior design

• Site design

• Construction documents

• Building department plans

• Construction plans

Give me a call at (813) 838-0425 with any questions or comments about your Florida residential project. Residential Architect Florida: Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Brandon, Bradenton, Lutz, Tarpon Springs, Land O' Lakes, Wesley Chapel and Springhill.