Selecting an architect is a crucial decision in any construction or renovation project. Beyond poring over portfolios and scrutinizing proposals, speaking with references (former or current clients of the Architect) can provide invaluable insights into an architect’s capabilities, communication style, and overall suitability for your project. However, knowing how to conduct these conversations effectively is essential to glean the most relevant information. In this article, we’ll explore some tips and strategies for You, the prospective client, on how to talk with references.
Why would a reference want to talk with You, a prospective client?
References are typically former or current clients of the architect in question. Their perspective centers around their firsthand experience working with the architect on a construction or renovation project. References may be motivated to share their experiences to assist prospective clients in making informed decisions. They have been in your shoes, wondering if they were making the right decision to hire the right Architect. They might highlight aspects such as the architect’s communication style, ability to meet deadlines, design creativity, problem-solving skills, and overall satisfaction with the project outcome. Their goal is to provide honest and constructive feedback that can help You, the prospective client, assess whether the architect is the right fit for your own project needs.
The steps to a successful conversation with a reference:
#1. Establish a Framework
Before reaching out to references, it’s essential to establish a framework for your conversation. Clearly outline the aspects of the architect’s work you’re particularly interested in exploring. This might include their design process, ability to meet deadlines, communication style, and problem-solving approach. Having a structured list of questions will help guide the conversation and ensure you cover all relevant areas.
Tip: Literally write down a list of questions, so you can refer to these while you talk, and can jot down notes or thoughts. Otherwise, you may get caught up in what the reference wants to tell you, rather than what you want to learn about working with the Architect.
#2. Prepare Open-Ended Questions
Craft open-ended questions that encourage references to provide detailed responses. Rather than asking simple yes or no questions, inquire about specific experiences or challenges they encountered during their project.
For example, instead of asking, “Was the architect easy to work with?” consider asking, “Can you tell me about a time when the architect successfully addressed a design challenge?”
#3. Listen Actively
During the conversation, focus on active listening. Pay attention not only to what the reference is saying but also to the tone of their voice and any non-verbal cues. Take notes to capture important points and ask for clarification if needed. By demonstrating genuine interest in their experiences, you’ll encourage references to share candid insights.
Instead of rushing into the next question on your list, wait for a little uncomfortable silence (maybe count to 10 silently). The reference may be able to give you a specific example of what happened on their project.
For example, you asked them, “Was the project put on hold at any time?” And the reference answers, “Yes, just a few months.” If you wait a few seconds, the reference may continue by saying, “We had some family issues, so we had to put the project on hold during design. The Architect checked in with us every month but didn’t pressure us with questions or a deadline. Once we were ready again, we reached out and got on the schedule again.”
#4. Explore Multiple Perspectives
Try to speak with multiple references to gain a comprehensive understanding of the architect’s strengths and weaknesses. Different clients may have had varying experiences based on the nature and scale of their projects. By gathering diverse perspectives, you’ll be better equipped to assess how the architect might fit with your specific needs and preferences.
Not every reference will have a project just like yours – in the same area, for the same budget, of the same size or style. So you may need to talk to different references to get a full picture of how the Architect would work with you on your project.
#5. Inquire About Challenges
Don’t shy away from asking references about any challenges or issues they encountered while working with the architect. Understanding how the architect navigates difficult situations can provide valuable insights into their problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Moreover, it demonstrates your commitment to making an informed decision based on a comprehensive understanding of the architect’s capabilities.
Every project has a challenge. You want to know how the Architect will handle it, and if you as the Client will be educated on the problem and how best to solve it, instead of being blind-sided and feeling like you have to solve it by yourself.
Example of project challenges: The zoning setbacks won’t allow you to build the addition where you originally intended. The FEMA 50% Rule gives you a construction value less than what it would take to remodel. The existing house has a critical structural problem that will take some time and money to figure out. The siding you chose is no longer available from the manufacturer. Some challenges will occur during construction, and the Architect should be part of those conversations, too.
#6. Respect Confidentiality
While it’s important to gather as much information as possible, respect the confidentiality of the references’ experiences. Avoid pressuring references to disclose sensitive or proprietary information about their projects. Instead, focus on gaining insights into the architect’s approach, communication style, and overall performance.
You may observe that many architects refrain from disclosing their clients’ names or precise project locations on their websites. This discretion is in line with the confidentiality and respect they extend to all clients, including you and your project.
In conclusion, talking to references is an essential step in the process of selecting an architect for your project. By approaching these conversations thoughtfully and strategically, prospective clients can gain valuable insights into an architect’s capabilities, communication style, and overall suitability. By establishing a framework, asking open-ended questions, actively listening, exploring multiple perspectives, inquiring about challenges, and respecting confidentiality, clients can make more informed decisions that align with their project goals and vision.
And remember, just like your friends and family, these references are enthusiastic to hear about your remodeling or new home project. Having just gone through the design and construction process, references are usually very happy to advise and guide you to have the most successful experience that you can.
Thinking of remodeling your home, putting on an addition, or building new? Visit our website, download our Project Planning Pack, and Schedule a Call today. http://www.designfreedominc.com
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