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Choosing the Right Architect for Your Project: What Should You Be Asking 

By Kevin Scully AIA, NCARB

March 3, 2025
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Hiring the right architect for your project is a critical decision that can significantly impact the ultimate success of the project.

Designing and constructing a building is often one of the largest investments business leaders make, with outcomes that ripple across their organization for years. The importance of finding an architect who understands your vision, builds thoughtfully, and minimizes costly missteps cannot be overstated.

While traditional questions like “What is your fee structure?” or “Have you completed similar projects?” are important, they might not give you a complete picture of how well an architect aligns with your needs. A deeper conversation can uncover insights that truly matter in ensuring a successful project. In this article, we’ll explore three key questions you should consider during the selection process—and why they could make all the difference in finding the architect that best fits your project.
Architect and interior designer review floor plan
Architect and interior designer review floor plan

1. Will Their Design Reflect Your Culture and Values? 

Buildings aren’t just structures—they tell stories. Your physical space is often the most visible expression of your brand, culture, and mission. With this in mind, ask yourself, “Does this architect prioritize creating a design that reflects our identity?”

You want an architect who goes beyond functionality and creates a building that feels uniquely “you.” Look for clues in how they interact with you. Are they asking meaningful questions about your vision? Do they seem genuinely invested in learning what’s most important to you? If a building they design could just as easily belong to someone else—or worse, your competitor—that might be a sign they haven’t fully embraced your unique story.

2. What Is Their Design Process? 

The design process is where creativity meets execution, and it directly influences whether or not your project will successfully meet your needs. Ask prospective firms about the methods and steps they take to understand and define your project. The goal here isn’t just to understand their timeline, but to uncover their approach to discovering what makes your project unique.

Some firms avoid collaboration and prefer working behind the scenes, only presenting their design once it feels complete. While this may lead to beautiful buildings, it can result in a space that misses key details, cultural nuances, or functional needs that are specific to you.

A more intentional process looks different. Architects with robust design practices involve you, your team, and your stakeholders early on. They gather insights, listen actively, and ensure their solutions align with your goals.

A well-executed design process ensures the building design meets your business requirements and brings value beyond its functionality. Take, for instance, the Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. The moment you step inside, the space evokes somber reflection, with intentional design choices that communicate the weight of its subject matter. This kind of targeted storytelling demonstrates what intentional architecture can achieve.
Design Collaborative Team working together Interior designers review swatches
Design Collaborative Team working together Interior designers review swatches

3. How Will They Minimize Risk and Maximize Your Investment? 

We’ve all heard nightmare stories of skyrocketing construction costs or deadlines that keep getting pushed. Questions about cost, timelines, and design changes are valid—but they’re just the starting point. Instead, dig deeper by asking, “How does your firm ensure successful execution from start to finish?”

One critical aspect to explore is how well the firm communicates across teams. Miscommunication between designers, engineers, builders, and other contractors can lead to costly surprises. A firm with integrated services under one roof may be better equipped to manage inter-team coordination, ultimately reducing both schedule delays and unexpected expenses.

Additionally, inquire about their strategies for avoiding change orders during construction. Changes in the field can quickly spiral out of control, driving up your final costs. To avoid this, ask how technical expertise is applied during the design phase to deliver well-coordinated, accurate construction documents.

It’s also worth discussing their post-construction perspective. While initial costs matter, keep an eye on the final cost—the long-term value of the investment. A poorly designed building may seem budget-friendly at first but could incur greater operational expenses or require costly modifications later. The architect you select should be invested in delivering a solution that meets your needs now and in the future.

Your Next Steps 

Selecting an architect is about far more than qualifications and cost comparisons. It’s about finding a partner who understands your mission, works collaboratively to uncover the best solutions, and ensures your investment is well-protected.

At Design Collaborative, we pride ourselves on designing spaces that align with our clients’ stories, values, and aspirations. With over 33 years of experience and a proven process tailored to each project, we build more than structures—we create People-First Places. From concept to completion, we are committed to minimizing risks and delivering results that exceed expectations.
Pearl Street Arts Center - Lobby
Pearl Street Arts Center - Lobby

Curious to learn more? We’d love to discuss how we can help bring your vision to life. Contact us to set up a conversation. Together, we’ll create a space that’s uniquely yours.

Article published in the Charlotte Business Journal.

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