Choosing the Right Architect for You: Questions to Ask Before You Hire

Finding the right architect can shape the entire experience of your home project. Beyond design credentials or portfolios, the working relationship you build—how clearly you communicate, how well your ideas are understood, and how decisions are made—can have a lasting impact on the success of the outcome.

If you’re thinking about hiring an architect, here are some useful questions to ask that can help you make a confident and informed choice.

From 3D computer modelling to hand drawn sketches like this one, different architects communicate ideas in different ways.

1. What is your design philosophy?

This is less about style and more about values. Some architects champion a specific look; others, like myself, take a contextual approach—balancing the character of a building or site with the needs of its occupants. I try to create designs that feel rooted, well-considered, and honest in their materials and detailing.

Ask this question to understand whether their way of thinking resonates with your priorities. Do they value natural light? Simplicity? Sustainability? Every practice has its emphasis.

2. Have you worked on projects similar to mine?

Experience counts, especially when it comes to planning permissions, site constraints, or working within older buildings. I’ve worked on a mix of renovations, extensions, barn conversions and one-off new builds across the South West, often in conservation areas or rural settings.

Even if a project is one-of-a-kind, the underlying principles—like working with listed buildings or modest rural budgets—are often familiar territory.

3. How will you help me visualise the design?

For many clients, the hardest part is imagining the final result. I use 3D models throughout the design process to help make decisions clearer and easier to picture. Floor plans and sketches are useful, but a walk-through render or a shaded perspective often sparks better discussion.

Check whether the architect uses similar tools. You don’t need to understand technical drawings—good communication is about clarity.

4. What’s the process from first meeting to finished build?

It helps to understand the typical journey. I break projects into clear stages: concept design, planning, technical design, and optional support during construction. Some clients just need help up to planning; others want guidance all the way through.

Ask how each stage is handled and what’s included. Timelines, decision points, and deliverables should be transparent.

5. How do you approach planning applications?

Planning rules vary depending on context, and knowing how to design within those rules—without losing the character of a proposal—is part of what you’re hiring an architect for.

I handle planning submissions and liaise with local authorities directly, especially where heritage or landscape designations are involved. Ask whether the architect has local experience and how they handle challenges.

6. What happens during the build?

Not every architect offers the same level of support during construction. I tailor this depending on the builder and the client. In most cases I provide detailed drawings and answer queries as needed, in others I have more involvement on site.

It’s worth asking how involved the architect expects to be—and what would be helpful for your particular setup.

7. What are your fees and how are they structured?

There are different ways to charge—fixed fees, stage-based fees, or percentages of the build cost. I favour fixed fees for each stage, because it makes it easier for clients to understand and plan.

You should know exactly what’s included and what’s not. Ask about extra costs too, like surveys, planning fees, or third-party consultants.

8. Are you currently taking on new projects?

Architects often book up months in advance, especially sole practitioners. I try to be upfront about availability and give a realistic idea of when each stage can start. A bit of lead time usually pays off in a smoother, better-considered design process.

9. What do your past clients say about working with you?

Most architects can point to reviews, testimonials or examples. Clients often say they appreciate my calm, considered approach and the clarity of communication throughout the project.

Look for signs that the architect values the relationship, not just the end result.

It’s about the right fit

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. A good architect will take time to understand your goals, respect your budget, and explain things clearly. Ultimately, you want someone who listens as much as they advise.

Choosing well at this early stage can help you feel more confident, better supported, and clearer about the path ahead.