Start looking for things that you like. There is no way to explain what you want if you don't know what it is. You could leave it to the architect but you might disagree or dislike what he suggests, so be sure of your needs and look for examples of buildings, houses, kitchens and all the details of a home that speak to you. Look in books of famous architects, magazines, and on the Internet to help you understand what you want. If you don't know, you wont be able to transmit what you want to the architect and he won't be able to translate your ideas into a home.
Start looking for the architect. Ask your friends, look in all the architecture offices, and look online. Look for architects that match your preferences, and ask for portfolios. As you filter your choices to a restricted number, call them and explain what you want and see if they are available.
Choosing your architect. As you pre-select a few architects, go ahead and look at what they have built (even going so far as to visit the buildings). Check out the architect's personal web site. Then choose only one architect. And here is the most important part: Talk to him. Schedule an interview and explain your ideas and dreams. Ask him questions, address your doubts. You must feel connected to the architect you choose.
During the project. It is fundamental to participate and give your opinions and ideas. It is much easier to change things as they are drawn than after they have been built. Try to understand how things work and ask for a volumetric model if that's what you need to help you visualize things. Don't be afraid to give your opinion, but don't try to be smarter than the architect--after all, he studied and practiced for a long time. Say what your needs are, as people have different ways of using rooms, and the organization of the space is fundamental to feeling good in your place.
During the construction. It's time to be patient, as it will seem that the project will never end! Usually the architect follows the construction--this is also the right thing to do because no one knows the project better than him. This is the part where most conflicts appear, usually about money. You will always have to buy more materials and discuss the prices. A good hint is to discuss all the possibilities of materials with your architect, to find the right balance between quality and budget. Remember that at this point, it's almost impossible to change the physical part of the construction so never let the project unfold without participation in the process....
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Author: Linda Mattoli