A house is a working relationship with your architect that lasts months, sometimes years. So the choice should not rest on a few photographs you like. The questions below help you understand, at the first meeting, both how a studio works and how it will work with you.
1. Which of your projects have been built?
Renderings are impressive, but built work says the most about an architect. If you can, visit a finished project or speak to its owner. Telling concept work from built work sets your expectations correctly.
2. Who will design my house?
In larger offices, the person at the first meeting and the team that draws the project can be different people. Establish who the responsible architect is and who you will deal with throughout.
3. What are the stages, and what is delivered at each?
Find out what each stage delivers: concept, design development, construction drawings, site supervision. How many options, drawings at what scale, how many visualizations. A vague scope turns into arguments about fees and time later.
4. What does the fee include?
What the figure covers matters more than the figure. Are structural, mechanical and electrical projects included? Permit follow-up? Interiors? Site supervision? The minimum fee schedule published by the Chamber of Architects of Turkey is a useful reference for judging proposals.
5. Will we sign a written contract?
A written contract covering scope, schedule, payments, number of revisions and copyright protects both sides. A studio that avoids offering one may also avoid you when problems arise.
6. Will you be on site during construction?
An architect's work does not end on the day the drawings are delivered. Small decisions on site largely decide the quality of the house. Ask how often and in what depth supervision happens: a monthly visit, or regular checks at critical stages?
7. How will I see the house before it is built?
Reading plans does not come easily to everyone. A 3D model, photoreal images or a walkthrough let you make decisions before construction. Ask at which stage these are prepared and in how much detail.
8. How do you manage the budget?
A good architect develops the design together with your budget and makes sure you know when a decision is expensive. Ask when cost estimates are made and what alternatives are offered if the budget is exceeded.
What to bring to the first meeting
- The title details of the plot and, if you have it, the zoning document
- A rough budget range and the timing you have in mind
- Examples of houses you like and dislike
- A few notes on how your family lives day to day
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an architect and an interior architect?
An architect designs the building as a whole, including its structure, facade and relationship to the site, and prepares the permit drawings. An interior architect focuses on the layout, materials, furniture and lighting of the spaces. In a new house, the best results come when both work together from the start.
Does it make sense to work with an independent architect?
On residential projects, an independent architect working with you directly offers close attention and quick communication. What matters is whether they have a reliable network for engineering and site supervision.
