Once you’ve decided to hire an architect, what is next?  We recommend scheduling an introductory meeting with an architect.  Our process starts with a phone call or zoom meeting that covers five major questions:

Project Goals

What is driving the need for you to take on this project? During the introductory meeting, we start with this important question so that we can understand the primary project goals. At the onset, we want to be in alignment with what you are seeking to accomplish.

Use + Program

What is the proposed use and program? Gaining insight into how you intend to use the property or building is crucial at this stage. Prior to the introductory call with an architect, we research several public data sources to collect valuable information that will shape the proposed project.   Resources like Google Earth, DC PropertyQuest,  and DOB Scout provide a wealth of knowledge about the existing and proposed use, existing structures, site features, and rough area takeoffs. We offer insight into what we think is possible on a given site.

Schedule

How soon do you want to start? How long will this project take? We provide preliminary feedback for the design, approvals and construction durations. Our goal is to set realistic expectations at this early stage.

Construction Budget

How much do you want to invest in your project? Often clients don’t have a budget or don’t know how to approach creating a budget. While there are a number of resources, each project has specific cost drivers that can make even ballpark pricing difficult at this stage. However, we can provide insight on a construction budget range, including design fees.

Are we a good fit?

Are we the right firm for your project? Sometimes, we aren’t the best fit for the opportunity. In cases where schedule, scope or fee are not in alignment, we can provide a referral to a member of our AIA|DC Small Firm Exchange (SFx) community who may be able to help.

What happens next?  if the project is a good fit, we develop a proposal and then schedule a time to review in person. Once the proposal is signed and the retainer collected, we move into Predesign.