The good news about finding a residential architect in the Pacific Northwest is that there are many qualified ones to consider. If you select an architect who is licensed, an AIA member, and has glowing references, you will be in good hands.

Determining factors are how close the architect’s designs are to what you like and how comfortable you feel communicating with them. You will spend a lot of time together, and it helps if we trust, respect, and enjoy each other’s company.

Here’s a list to help you find the right architect:

  1. Search for architects online, including through your local American Institute of Architects (AIA) website, dwell magazine’s ProIndex, or internet searches for residential architects in your location.
    The advantage of searching through the AIA website is that you’ll find licensed architects affiliated with a professional organization.
  2. Visit the firms’ websites that focus on the project type you are looking for, for example, residential design and remodels.
    If the firm’s design approach is similar to what you like, contact them about your project.
  3. Set up a time to talk with several architects by phone.
    If you find your list is longer than five, go back and look more carefully at the architects’ websites; you should be able to narrow your list so that you can be respectful of their time and yours.
  4. During the initial phone call, be clear with the architect about your project scope, budget, and timeline.
    This will give the architects crucial information about your project so that they can determine if they should take the next step and meet with you at your home.
  5. Meet with your shortlist of 2 or 3 architects in person to see if the chemistry is right.
    Remember, you will be working with your architect for at least a year, if not longer. You want someone with whom you feel comfortable and can problem solve.
  6. Ask how the architect’s fee structures work.
    Architects’ fees are usually either a percentage of construction cost, hourly, or a combination. The percentage can vary between architects according to project type and size. For example, if you build a new $1.5 million house, a 15% fee would be $225,000. Suppose you were remodeling a kitchen with a $150,000 construction cost. In that case, the percentage fee might be higher, 18%, because smaller jobs often require more work per square foot, especially kitchens and bathroom remodels. Some architects charge hourly, but the total fee is often in the same range as the percentage fee. It can be mind-boggling for clients to understand the many hours it takes to design, draw, and coordinate a project for permitting and construction. My firm uses a hybrid hourly and percentage fee. The hourly fee is applied in Schematic Design when the project scope is unknown. When the scope is defined, the cost is a percentage.
  7. Ask what the architect’s fee includes. It can be challenging to compare different architects’ fees apples-to-apples. Typically, services include the following:
    • Schematic Design:
      Establish the conceptual design, scale, and relationship among spaces.
    • Design Development:
      Refine the design and prepare plans, elevations, building sections, and typical details.
    • Contract Documents:
      Prepare detailed working drawings and specific conditions for construction.
    • Permitting:
      Submitting drawings and forms to the building department and responding to correction notices.
    • Contract Observation:
      Observe construction to ensure the project is built according to the drawings and specifications. It’s also important to ask what is not included in the architect’s essential services. Part of my firm’s service includes selecting everything attached to the house (lighting, plumbing fixtures, and finishes). Still, some architects expect clients to hire an interior designer to provide this information.
  8. Ask about the contractor selection process.
    Architects usually have a shortlist of established contractors they recommend because of their work quality, experience, and communication skills. Typically, the price range of contractors on this list is consistent since they often charge similar percentages for overhead and profit and are probably working with the same pool of qualified sub-contractors. In a market where construction is booming, selecting a contractor can often come down to finding room on the schedule of a recommended contractor. It’s best if the contractor is part of the team early on in a project. This way, the contractor can give information on pricing and advise on construction details, and you can secure a place on their schedule.
  9. Talk to references
    Ask to talk to some past clients, but only if you are serious. I believe in protecting the time of my past clients. Some questions to ask are: Would you recommend this architect to a friend? What was it like working with this architect? Did you feel that the architect listened to you?
  10. Is sustainable design a priority for you?
    If it is, consider hiring a Passive House and LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) Certified architect. Passive House and LEED certification demonstrates a serious commitment to sustainable design, similar to getting an architectural license. It requires extensive studying of green design solutions, passing a rigorous exam, and ongoing continuing education to understand the latest developments. LEED-certified architects can offer advice and insight on your project’s best sustainable goals and solutions.