Choosing An Architect-stepwise Procedure

By Author: Access Architects
Total Articles: 25
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If you are all set to embark on a construction project, your first step should be to shortlist the eligible architects in Mumbai and interview them for the kind of work you’re expecting out of them. Talk to the top 3 to have a good range of fees and services. Architects should have a good experience and know everything about the littlest tasks. Before hiring them, make sure they provide the following services –
• Zoning and Site Analysis
This step tells you about the amount of building you can do on the property and where it must be located on the property.
This also includes the parking space and the purpose for which the property is being used to.
• Programming & Preliminary Design
Once you have the results from the Zoning Analysis, this stage is to provides design sketches that are completely based on your requirements and budget. The sketches should have floor plans as well as one elevation to add a pep to the appeal.
• Design Development
Once Preliminary Design is approved by you, you need to then finalize the whole design process. The overall room and building dimensions, door swings, locations of windows, interior finishes as well as a wide range of the building's systems that are very similar to the desired design. Most of the top architects limit these meetings and then charge you if you ever go over the allotted amount. It is important that this is defined in the written contract.
• Construction Documents
Every architecture project comes with several designs, documents and budget. Some of the most important documents include the drawings that address both local and state codes as well as provide detailed dimensions and specifications with detailed drawings for the contractor to bid the job while also getting all the permits.
• Correspondence throughout the process
This stage is where the need for the correspondence between an architect, contractor, building department and sometimes the trades arises. You should always be aware of the fee that your architect charges you for all these items.
• Expediting
Every job requires building department filing, permits as well as a proper certificate of occupancy. You need to always be up to date with all the services that your client is providing in their contract. These services should be worth the amount you’re investing on hiring a professional to handle the architecture of your home or office.
Once you know all about the process, make sure you have everything in writing – proof of insurance, license and a solid look at a portfolio and/or website. You could also ask for a reference list and phone numbers. It is important for you to feel comfortable with your architect and his/her methods of working. They are sure to spend many months, and sometimes years, with you depending on the complexity of your project.
Choose one of the many famous architects in India is no easy job; it takes a lot of analysing, researching and communicating to get to the best one without any doubt. If you follow the above step, your job could possibly be eased a little.