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How to Choose an Architect - Creativity, "gut feeling" can drive choice

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5/22/2009

Friday, May 22, 2009

Creativity, ‘gut feeling’ can drive choice of architect

St. Louis Business Journal - by Diana Barr

Architecture bridges art and science, so architects can vary widely in their approach. Getting to know prospective architects’ creativity, as well as getting a “vibe” for their work, will help you choose the right professional.

Alex Paradowski, principal in design and communications firm Paradowski Creative, said he’s looking for an architect with new ideas. “I want them to come up with stuff I could never come up with. I want to push them back, not rein them in.”

The architect you choose should be able to solve your unique problems. In Paradowski’s case, that was a large, open office area but the need for privacy at individual work stations. Paradowski has used architects for headquarters projects, such as Paradowski Creative’s upcoming move to a rehabbed Midtown building, as well as his own home.

Creative options don’t necessarily come at a higher price, he said. “Inventive and low-cost ideas can separate architect from architect, and one project from another.”

That doesn’t necessarily translate into looking for the oldest or largest firm, he said. “I don’t know that if you go to the biggest firm that you get the best work, unless your project commands the best people there,” he said. Look at the work of the person who’ll be on your team.

Bruce Sommer, director of America’s Center, and his team recently went through a bid process for the current $30 million upgrade of the Edward Jones Dome. “While we’re public, we’re not required to take the low bid, but we are required to consider it,” he said. “First and foremost, you want someone well-qualified.” A qualified architect will probably give you a competitive bid, he said.
Be very clear about what you expect an architect to do, Sommer said. Check references for the firms you consider, and get a complete biography of each team member, he said. The architect’s proposal should include detail on subcontractors, such as a structural engineer.

“The architect usually gives an extensive personal presentation, so you can grill them,” he said. Be sure to ask open-ended questions to get a sense of the architect’s creativity. “If you’re doing (private) suites, you want some pizzazz, because they’re going to pay a lot of money for them.”

Use a lawyer to review your contract and avoid mistakes, Sommer said.
“There’s a whole list of things to look for, but it comes down to a gut feeling,” Sommer said. “You want a relationship like with a really good doctor — I want to hear the options, and I’ll pick.”

Gregory Lee, senior vice president, asset management, at Gundaker Commercial Group, said his firm hires architects for multifamily development and space planning for tenants, among other projects. Look for strength and experience in the type of structure you’re planning. Inquire about who the architect was for a building you like — or don’t like. “Put that away for reference,” he said.

Find an architect who can “value engineer” your project, he said. “Some architects can give you a look, quality feel and functionality for the same dollar through judicious use of the way they run the walls, for example,” he said.
Talk to other developers about how quickly architects have handled issues that arose. “That response time has value,” he said. “Otherwise there are a lot of people playing poker in the trailers.”

dbarr@bizjournals.com

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