Choosing the Right Architect for Your Project

Guest post by intern, Kokobe Foust

Hiring an architect is a big step as you’re trusting someone to help design a space where you’ll live, work, or spend meaningful time. Whether planning a custom home, a renovation, or a commercial space, choosing the right architect isn’t just about finding beautiful work in their portfolio; it’s about finding someone who gets your vision, communicates clearly, and has a process that fits your needs and goals.

Concept renderings by JLA for a client presentation

When looking through an architect’s portfolio, don’t just focus on how their projects look. Pay attention to whether their work shows flexibility or sticks to one specific style. Do they have experience with projects like yours in size or type? Are their designs not only creative but also livable and efficient? If their past work feels in line with what you’re imagining, that’s a great sign. But if the style isn’t exactly what you had in mind, ask how adaptable they are with different styles, goals, and project types.

Once you’ve found someone whose work you like, the next step is having a real conversation with them. This interview or initial meeting is your chance to figure out whether they’re a good fit. Take this opportunity to ask questions to get a good idea of their process. Ask them what kinds of projects they usually work on and how they approach design challenges. It’s also helpful to have them walk you through what their process looks like, from your first idea to when construction wraps up. You’ll want to know if they’ve done similar projects before, what excites them about your vision, and how they strike a balance between creativity, function, and budget.

Budget and timing are huge factors, so don’t hesitate to bring them up early. Ask how they put together cost estimates and how they keep things on track financially. What happens if something unexpected comes up? How do they manage timelines and stay organized? You should also get a clear sense of what communication with them will look like. Will you be meeting regularly? Who will be your main point of contact? And how do they handle feedback and changes as the design evolves?

Some early concept sketches for a residential project

You’ll also want to understand how they structure their fees, what’s included, and what might come with an additional cost. Some architects also handle things like permitting or working directly with contractors—others may not—so it’s a good idea to ask about that too.

Beyond all the logistics and credentials, chemistry really matters. How do you feel talking with them? Do they listen to your ideas and take your goals seriously? Are they able to explain things in a way that makes sense to you? You should feel comfortable asking questions and confident that they’re truly paying attention to what matters to you.

Before making your final decision, ask for references. A great architect should be happy to connect you with past clients. When you talk to those references, ask what it was like working with them—how responsive they were, whether the project stayed on track, and if they’d work with them again. That kind of first-hand feedback can tell you a lot about what to expect.

Ultimately, it’s not just about selecting someone with good design skills. It’s about finding someone who can translate your vision into something real, while keeping you involved and informed along the way. If you find an architect who communicates well, listens to your needs, and brings ideas to the table that excite you, then you’ve probably found the right fit.

An architect is a critical part of the team during the construction phase of your project.