Selecting an Architect

Picking the right person to design your green home is an important first step

By Jeremy Bonin
Bonin Architects & Associates

A successful green project begins with the relationship between the homeowner and the architect. Understanding what an architect is capable of bringing to a specific project also helps to define the relationship.

The role of the architect is not just that of a designer. The architect is often the owner’s representative and primary point of contact, providing services such as project administration and management, bidding and contract negotiation, and construction administration. Building codes, life safety codes, zoning and environmental impact issues are researched and interpreted for your specific project as well as assistance and representation at public hearings when required. Consider the previously mentioned items in conjunction with coordinating the project design consultants (landscape architects, engineers and interior designers, for example), managing the project budget, the architectural design and documentation, materials selection, and bidding and cost analysis, and you can see there is an obvious need for a strong relationship and trust between owner and architect.

Sometimes the most difficult step is not selecting an architect, but finding several appropriate ones to choose from. The architecture firm you select should reflect your green vision, understand your goals and be familiar with the type of project you are building. The American Institute of Architects, as well as its state and local chapters, offer search options online to find local architects by differing criteria such as distance from a selected zip code, services offered and building type. LEED Accredited Professionals will list their credentials and affiliations.

The Internet is another valuable resource, where you may find the history of the firm, its mission statement, states it is registered in and principal firm members. Word of mouth from builders, contractors and other industry professionals may also steer you in the direction of a firm meeting your needs for an energy-efficient home.

To select an architect for your project, consider the project and your vision of the project closely. As the homeowner, you bring the desires, aspirations and resources to see the project to fruition. The architect provides the vehicle to develop and manage the project from idea to paper and from paper to reality. Take the vision of your project, define it and evaluate it; then, discuss it with prospective firms to evaluate their level of interest in your specific project type as well as your vision of the end result (the building itself). Visit prospective architects’ offices or have them visit your site if possible. Speak to the architect about your budget and construction timeframe as well. Ask to see a portfolio of completed projects and to visit projects both completed and under construction that are similar to your project. In addition, ask for the contact information for references – testimonials from past and current clients will attest to both the firm’s quality of service and a personal view of the experience of working with the firm during the design and construction process.

Another item to consider is the size of the architectural firm – some are sole proprietorships while others have upwards of 100 employees. (The average firm has close to 10 employees). Typical residential projects may be handled by any size firm; more often, it is the sole proprietor and the average-sized small firm that work to both the client's and the firm’s mutual advantage. The size of the architectural firm typically does not ensure success. Be sure to meet those people specifically that you will have day-to-day contact with and will be directly responsible for your project, and confirm that sufficient staffing will be available to meet your anticipated schedule.

Speaking with the architect and project team will ensure that the chemistry is good for what sometimes can be a project spanning a year or longer. If the architect has preferred consultants, ask for a list of those firms as well. The more research you conduct and the more professionals you have the opportunity to meet and see examples of their work or project the better. Finally, ask for names of previous clients you may contact for testimonials, as they will describe not only the end result (your green home) but the experience of the whole project as it relates to the architectural firms you are considering.

A successful project is the homeowner's and architect’s end goal, so collaboration between them is paramount. Choose an architect in whom you have confidence and who you feel will ask the correct questions in order to bring your priorities and vision to light. The result will be an efficient home that will limit negative impact on the surrounding site and environment, and be one your family can enjoy for years to come.

About Jeremy Bonin
Jeremy Bonin, AIA NCARB LEED AP, USGBC member since 2008, is a principal partner of Bonin Architects & Associates. He is an award-winning architect and author. Jeremy focuses on sustainable design and structural insulated panels (SIPs) while incorporating other sustainable (green) energy practices, including timber frame, post and beam, geothermal, solar, radiant heat, and energy-efficient foundation systems.