A good real estate development starts with the right architect. An architect is concerned not only with the concept, but also with the planning and design of a building or any real estate development. An architecture degree equips one with knowledge of the building and operational codes that must be adhered to for each architectural design.
An architect is trained in such a way that he transforms the needs and demands of a user into design and ultimately physical form. This implies that you must have a complete training that helps you in the construction of a safe and healthy construction for people and communities. Architects must obtain licenses to practice architecture, as their building designs and planning decisions play a vital role in the safety of the public.
Architects specialize in different fields among architecture, that is, land, land development, buildings, office parks, residential, landscaping, and the like. This specialization is the result of an increasingly fragmented, demanding and concentrated world. Therefore, it is difficult for a single architect to know the know-how of each of these fields and to adapt to the different demands of different clients.
An architect plays a very important role in a project from its conception to its construction. The final physical form of a building or any real estate development is designed by an architect who obviously considers the wishes and needs of the client. As such, it is important to choose an architect who is well qualified and experienced in the specialized field of your choice. An architect who has been in business for at least 5 to 10 years must have developed a solid foundation of relevant concepts. You must possess the skills, knowledge and experience necessary for a decent and fascinating project. This indicates that it is essential to review an architect’s qualifications prior to selection; your title, experience and license – everything must be verified before one submits the project. An important point to keep in mind is that you must have experience for more than five years in the particular field of development project and not just as a general architect.
Having said the importance of educational qualifications, it is time to review an architect’s affiliations and accreditations. A successful architect must also be affiliated with a trusted institution, for example, the American Institute of Architects (AIA), the Royal Canadian Institute of Architecture, the Royal Institute of British Architects, and the like. Membership in such institutes demonstrates the credibility and popularity of an architect in the industry. An architect affiliated with and accredited by similar professional architectural organizations has certainly exceeded all of your requirements. This is strong recognition and proof of your achievement. However, mere membership is not the only consideration before choosing an architect. Other relevant factors and elements should also be considered so that the final decision is made with all concerns in mind.
The geographic area of specialty is also an important element. Some architects are specialized and know certain areas well, and as such their scope is quite limited to those areas. Although he / she may excel in architecture and in the particular area or areas, this does not guarantee that he / she can deliver equivalent results in the area of the project requirements. Therefore, this aspect must also be taken into account.
Some other conditions are also relevant, as they determine if a project will be successful and, simultaneously, if the relationship between the client and the architect is strong and pleasant. A good architect must possess good communication skills and must answer the client’s questions and / or inquiries. This is a very important factor, which ensures the completion of the project on time and in good terms. For your relationship with the architect to be successful, the architect you ultimately select must, of course, follow up on calls and emails and must keep his word on different aspects of the project.
An architect’s connections are a reflection of his success and accomplishments, as well as his political and negotiating skills. One who is well connected and has contacts like city planners and those in political processes is undoubtedly preferred over his counterparts with relatively few connections and contacts. Yet another factor is an architect’s membership in local clubs like Kiwanis, Toastmasters, Knights of Columbus, Rotary, etc. An associate member is definitely a better candidate.
Each of the factors mentioned above are important considerations for an investor or client before choosing a suitable architect. At first, it may seem difficult to find architects with all the qualifications, but there are ways. You can speak to developers, other popular architects, planning and construction departments, local economic developments, chambers of commerce, etc. and ask for references. Similar referrals can also be obtained from experienced customers, sellers, and buyers. The advent and popularity of the Internet has opened hitherto unknown avenues for obtaining information. The Internet can be a source of information, details and contact on renowned, qualified and experienced architects. The websites of professional architecture organizations may also list prominent architects in different regions.
A good architect is the key to any real estate development. Once a strong relationship and understanding has been established with the right architects, the entire idea generation process from conceptualization to final construction becomes simpler and more satisfying. A good architect knows all the reasonable specifications and is full of ideas that form successful real estate development strategies. Therefore, it is absolutely imperative to choose the right architect, one who is conscientious, experienced, and reputable.