Everything you need to know before hiring an architect

Whether you are remodeling your kitchen, creating your dream home, or planning a commercial building, working with an architect can save you time and money, and create a better home or office you’ll enjoy for years to come.

They will listen to you
As collaborative, approachable partners, architects will listen to your concerns and requests throughout every design process.
They design solutions
An architect’s education and experience allows him or her to not only solve problems but avoid them.
They transform communities
An architect’s work turns a place into a community. They look beyond the blueprints and buildings and seek to improve the lives of people in a community.
They strengthen society
Architects help to make our communities safer, healthier and more livable. They guide collective visions and help transform lives.
In a recent survey*, homeowners look to architects to...
Deliver a quality result
Understand and comply with building codes
Integrate the homeowner’s design/style
Aside from design services and documentation, architects can also provide:
Construction management
Zoning process assistance
Site analysis and selection
Bidding and negotiation
Furniture and equipment installation
Testing and inspection
Full-time, on-site project management
* Source: Houzz & Home, 2016. Overview of U.S. Renovation in 2015.
Probably. For every 10 single-family homes, nine are at least 15 years old.* The chances are high that it’s time for an updated kitchen or an addition to your home.
Home renovation costs can vary given the size and scope of the project. Discuss with your architect how to work within your budget to provide you the best possible solution and design for your project.

How to Find the Right Architect for your project

One of the best ways to find the architect that’s right for you begins with finding homes or buildings you admire. Then, ask the owner who designed them.
Contact us - your local chapter of the American Institute of Architects. Visit our architect finder to browse local firms and search by specialty.
AIA offers house tours and presentations by local architects year-round, where you can ask questions and get ideas.
More than 8 million photos and thousands of architects are at your fingertips on AIA National’s account via Houzz.com. Scan for inspiration and click to save your favorites in your online idea portfolio.