Commercial businesses need a finished structure that’s aesthetically pleasing and safe. Houston architects manage the gap between construction and design and produce a high-quality and cost-effective outcome. They offer:
- Collaborative productions
- Community and environmental considerations
- Cost optimization
- Project management
- Site analysis
- Sustainability focus
However, a good architect bringing these assets to the table doesn’t make them the right fit for your objectives. We cannot stress enough how important it is to interview any architect and get a gist of how their processes align with your business goals.
In that regard, we offer 10 top questions Houston businesses should ask architects and what to know before hiring one.
1. What is your design philosophy?
From human-centered design to hedonistic sustainability, an architect abreast in innovation and proven design methodologies ensures a cohesive and effective design.
2. How busy are you?
Nothing is more frustrating than a glitch in your timetable. You need to know if an architect can manage your project effectively among the others on their plate.
3. How long will it take to complete my project from design to build?
A Houston architect may be able to give you an estimate upfront but, as stated, glitches happen. Their experience with the type of property you’re building and size and complexity influence the build phase. Generally, expect periods between six and 12 months.
4. Do you specialize in sustainable or green architecture?
Knowing an architect’s stance on this is in everyone’s best interest. Incorporating these philosophies into the build may be rewarded in cost savings and tax incentives. Additionally worth mentioning, the growing interest and trend of practical and sustainable living resources.
5. What sets your firm apart from other Houston architects?
There’s no one-stop architectural partner. What sets each apart is project experience, reputation, portfolio, regulatory compliance, etc. Questions like this can help you gauge what you like about any specific firm.
6. How do you handle zoning and code compliance in Houston?
Houston has no zone regulation. Instead, development is managed by ordinance codes. The codes address how property is subdivided but don’t cover land use. Having a Houston architect firm well versed on these matters is absolutely necessary.
7. Who from the firm will I work with? Is it the same person who designed my project?
There will likely be a team, each member specializing in a field (plumbing, electrical, floor plans, etc.). They’ll have a manager. That manager should be your point of contact, but it’s best to confirm this beforehand. The last thing you want is to be unable to get prompt information.
8. What would I expect my fee to be for my project?
Houston architects generally sets percentage fees using the total project cost and experience. Complexity and scope are the biggest factors. Smaller projects may have a fixed fee. As projects are vastly different, no potential fee can be guesstimated here.
9. How do I ensure my building will reflect my brand and business needs?
The architect will walk you through designs based on ideas, industry standards, compliances, etc. Open communication ensures the build meets your brand and intent. And as long as it’s feasible plans can be adjusted.
10. What role will I have during construction?
Your contribution and ideas drive the project and you’re free to be as involved as you wish. However, consider there will always be standards and practices that must be adhered to in any commercial property.
Things You Need to Know
When comparing Houston architects, learn what you can before making that call. Find out about their:
- Adaptability
- Business acumen
- Client relationships
- Collaborative processes
- Continuous learning
- Design aesthetic
- Portfolio
- Sustainability
Besides their expertise in design, Ted Trout Architects & Associates has a firm grasp of client expectations and budgets. Throughout Houston and its neighbors, we’re known for delivering cost-effective options that perform as promised. We invite you to reach out and get insights on how you can design everything from schools and businesses to multifamily housing.
