That sort of question is really a helpful one to ask, as it helps focus on the kinds of work we look for. If it’s your first client meeting, maybe it helps if you meditate for a few minutes just to relax the mind and calm the senses. Is there a charge for an initial meeting? What to Expect at the First Design Meeting with an Architect, 115 15th Avenue East, Suite 100, Seattle, WA 98112. Comment document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "a073a3426e5cd8580ed8dfb931caa03d" );document.getElementById("h4d44a69e9").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. For the last two days I've been mainly in meetings for our project here in Bangkok. client.”  What are the qualities and characteristics that make for the There isn't one universal solution to design problems, and that isn't why you should be looking for an architect (in my humble opinion). Your email address will not be published. They want to feel assured that you’re the right person for the job. The most important reason for the initial meeting with a client-to-be What that means, is that to get there, we need to push and pull with floor plans to get your input. politics, religion, and other subjects that are commonly known to be While cost is an important consideration, remember that it should not be the only basis for your decision. Always keep your cool and never lose focus. In fact, architects offer a comprehensive service that is broken into several phases. The get-to-know-you-phase establishes the tone of the meeting and First, the good news: ... I’m not saying this because Huggies is a client, but their blog is incredible. At that first meeting, we'll present numerous plan options that are meant to provoke opinions, as well as an option which is a version of the plan that was probably in your head. Use these 10 Tips on How to Prepare for your first meeting with your architect to prepare for your meeting … Ego is a big issue in architecture, and it while it can often produce beautiful work, it also closes off the client from the design process. Most will agree to a short, one-off introduction free of charge to discuss the project, your budget and their ability to deliver, but you should expect to pay for more detailed advice. How to Prepare for Your First Meeting with Your Architect Building a home is usually a project that our clients have thought about and planned for over many years – even their entire lives – and your initial meeting with your architect is the first step towards bringing that dream to life. to set a comfortable and relaxed tone. Try to imagine a horse grazing in a lovely meadow while they talk. We're committed to getting your project done right, and having all of us be proud of the final solution even if it isn't what we'd put in our own house. Establish a personal connection The client may come to the meeting with some of their own ideas. In the end though, you will find things you like or hate on pretty much all of the plans. No comments, no changes, no input. right frame of mind: meeting to decide if you want to work with this Will the coronavirus pandemic impact construction prices? This will help you … Here at Board & Vellum, we believe your outdoor spaces should be beautiful, functional, and awesome to hang out in no matter the season or weather. We think embracing the outdoors is key to fully enjoying the winter season. Are you a car enthusiast?” Architect: “I love my ribeye, I don’t mind a glass of wine, and I drive a 15-year-old car.” Client: “You had me at ribeye. is to determine if there is a fit and whether you want to take the next Following your initial meeting with an Architect, you should have a sense for whether they will be a good fit for your project. Then open the floor to questions. The horse is black. Many architects take a different tact by working for established firms and using the knowledge and connections from that position to leverage the launch of a new firm. Enjoying the outdoors in all this rain? in the relationship to ask a client-to-be to divulge. Where particular emphasis is put onto it during the conceptual and design stages, that often see’s the brief developing alongside the architect and past the client… And, I think they asked for some kind of pastel. on LinkedIn or Facebook, is perfectly acceptable. The potential client spoke about her interests and architect Asking for project leads at this stage is like saying, “What’s it person participates in, special interests, and mutual connections. Knowing this ahead of time helps to enter the meeting in the are way off the mark. This goes to show how professional you are … Review their fee proposal and make sure they have included all aspects of your project, and check references. When you hire us to design your retail space, house, or office, the project is still yours. page. When an architect and a client sit down for the first time to discuss a project that likely will consume the majority of their waking hours for many months, it’s important for that kick-off meeting to accomplish specific tasks. Your advocate for great architecture, interior design, and landscape architecture, large and small. As the client, you are entitled to rely on the skills of your architect; but you also have an important role to play alongside the architect. There’s so much to enjoy this time of year, so take a leaf out of Scandinavia’s book and prepare to get cozy. Plan on interviewing several architects before settling on one. Send us your questions about design, architecture, interiors, landscape, third places, LEGO rooms… Anything, really. Aside from possibly benefiting our ego (THIS is the plan!) culture, mission, structure, or size that your firm is best able to The design brief also plays a very important role and point of reference for both the client and architect during the projects development. Recently, in an interview for a new project we overheard a story about the clients working with an architect many years ago who carefully explained that the way he worked was that the first plan was very well thought through and that he wouldn't deviate from it. It’s not impossible that an initial meeting will result in First, these owners want expertise from their architects—nearly nine in 10 (88 percent) want architects to bring in expertise they are missing in-house, and nearly as many (82 percent) want architects to develop innovative project solutions. At your first meeting, you can expect to talk about ideas you have for the project, your budget, and timetable. First meetings reveal a lot of information about a client's lifestyle needs and budget, as well as how open they are to new ideas and brave design decisions. helps to go in with a clear idea of what constitutes the “ideal That crazy process is the point. Architects generally don’t charge for this time, which will be focused on whether the architect wants to take on the project and whether you want to hire them. At that first meeting, we'll present numerous plan options that are meant to provoke opinions, as well as an option which is a version of the plan that was probably in your head. When you first meet a prospective client, there are all sorts of things to bear in mind to seal the deal. ... (i.e. But breaking the ice by talking about personal interests, or I'm often asked what Board & Vellum stands for, and the above discussion highlights a bit of how we work. Are you curious about what that first design meeting will be like? During this meeting, it’s best to communicate your ideas clearly and ask lots of questions. Sleek. Q&A: Remind the note taker you assigned to capture the discussion in this part of the meeting. What subject areas are you interested in? Note: it is not about budgets. Enter the client consultation meeting ready to guide clients through the process of choosing colors, styles, and floorplans. If you live in Seattle, you might be scratching your head. If we had presented just one option, there wouldn't be anything to compare and contrast it to. It’s critical to remember the purpose of the meeting. there’s a good fit. It very often isn't what we would do for our own house or space and, more importantly, isn't something we design to get great photographs for our marketing efforts. Remember that the It’s important to meet on a Learning about projects would be nice, but it’s really early Client Development Questions for Architects. step in cultivating the relationship. Construction progress meeting - Designing Buildings Wiki - Share your construction industry knowledge. Nope, you're not going to build it. It explains why our projects are modern to traditional, small to large, and absolutely do not look like each other. If you enjoy reading our blog as much as we enjoy writing it, that just makes our day! Once I had a client begin a meeting the a campus architect by sharing At your first meeting it will be important to talk about your building project so your architect has a clear understand what you are looking for. The Code details the standards expected of architects in their professional practice, and relate to general ethical standards, dealings with clients, insurance coverage, continuing professional educatio… As an act of generosity, it’s kind to do the other person the favor of putting them at ease. In writing a pre-construction meeting agenda, these following details should not be missed: Architects deal with clients are are hands-off and clients who want to be involved in the nitty gritty decisions. architects think that the reason for meeting a client-to-be is to secure See this plan? Is this the kind of client you want to work with? prospect is checking you out, deciding if you and your firm are a good noting something you learned about the client-to-be from online research They may also hire specialists such as structural engineers or energy consultants, if needed for specific projects: Schematic design (also called Preliminary Design, Initial Consultation and Design, or Building Program & Site Analysis, among other things): Here the archi… When we see each other for the second design meeting, we'll have a very good understanding of the plan that you DO want, and our ability to move forward is greatly enhanced (and yes, often you do build the plan from the second meeting). For example, a presentation to a client compared to a presentation for a group of architects is very different, even if the project you need to communicate is the same. Coincidentally, I was having an in-house marketing discussion was asked, "Why the heck are people hiring us?" All rights reserved. Many professionals wonder if asking personal questions is appropriate gives you a chance to catch your breath. They'll have a list of questions, and they will almost be interviewing you to see if they like you and want to work with you. Whether you’ve decided that this is THE designer you’re working with, or you’re still testing the proverbial water, this first meeting can be improved with a … business-to-business connection. The reason to meet with a prospective client is to determine if that he’d seen she was interested in Rhododendrons on her Facebook fit. It’s a question that comes up fairly often: “Should I hire an architect and a separate general contractor, or hire a design-build firm as a one-stop-shop to both design and build my space?” There are pros and cons to each; but, before we jump in, let’s pause for a moment and take this conversation more slowly. strategies, issues, processes, and people. Be clear about the type of client you are, and ask your architect the kind of time commitment they expect from you. And, if there is a topic that you wish we would cover, let us know! I don't see that as a service worth paying for. Believe it or not, you can prepare beforehand for clients who don’t know exactly what they want. 1. Your email address will not be published. Client: “What’s your favourite cut of meat? Who answers to who? It’s critical to remember the purpose of the meeting. The First Meeting. You have to earn the right to ask questions about projects and The American Institute of Architects developed and published a list of 25 questions that you should ask before hiring an architect. For young architects who are used to texting, facing a client across the conference table can be daunting. For the client, this means already knowing … In short, yes! going to take to get you into this new car today?”. Who says yards are just for summer? While most You may find things that you thought you didn't want, end up actually being great ideas. So, you've decided to hire an architect. You might also enjoy a few of the related posts below. Those words are often spoken by me at the start of pretty much every design kick-off meeting. While most architects think that the reason for meeting a client-to-be is to secure work, or at a minimum come away knowing about upcoming projects, they are way off the mark. human, person-to-person level, before jumping into the © Copyright 2011-2020, Board & Vellum. You may find elements that you thought you wanted, but you find out that you actually don't like. appropriate, and that may be several meetings down the road. The first meeting is the time to work out if you are well suited by asking lots of questions – and they needn’t all be about the project, as this first conversation shows. conversation. I was shocked that other architects work that way, but in several conversations lately that has come up as something very common. Your first meeting with a client should build a foundation of trust. client, or check them off the list. To create great buildings, architects first need great clients. But architects are meeting hundreds of new companies and products in a very short time. In some cases, the questions are also worth asking during the process of working with an architect. But at House + House Architects, interns are schooled in the art of speaking. If you are looking to find an architect, try giving us a call. Is there a particular organizational in a business context. Why: Again and again, architects, building designers and homeowners talk about how the chemistry between pro and client can make or break a project. Different architects offer different things in initial meetings with potential clients. Didn't the clients pay for a plan that was exactly what they wanted? Looking at a person’s LinkedIn page can shed light on what groups the Isn't that the point of hiring an architect? Required fields are marked *. The minutes of a pre-construction meeting is a lengthy document. Our job is to make a house or space that is beautiful, meets your goals, and works architecturally. So, just nod often, eventually, they’ll go away. I've been realizing that the answer to that question has a lot to do with our thoughts on how we work with our clients. Moreover, don’t panic when everything goes haywire. Your first clients may come from relationships built during your time as an employee. The company name isn't my name as it isn't just my vision you're hiring, but the vision of a great team who wants to help you make your space amazing. First of all, they probably don’t know what they’re talking about anyway. It work, or at a minimum come away knowing about upcoming projects, they The first meeting is about learning about the prospects’ business leads, but it’s pretty unlikely. So, when I tell you that we won't build this first plan, it probably is the case, and that is exactly how things should work out. You’re hired.” Architect: “Don’t you … "We aren't going to build any of these plans.". As such your first meeting with a potential client as an architect is crucial. relationship, so you can get to the stage where asking about projects is Questioning Throughout a New Client Meeting, Talk About Your Architecture Practice Only If Asked, My Enduring Wish for Architects | January 2016, Build Trusting Relationships | April 2015, 4 Types of Management Statements | May 2014, 4 P’s of Marketing, Part 2 of 2 | September 2012, 4 P’s of Marketing, Part 1 of 2 | May 2012, The RFP Process in 7 Steps | October 2011. These can also be helpful jumping-off points for intiating the Before the meeting. The initial consultation or interview is primarily intended to see if you, your project, and the potential architect are a good fit. Most people are uncomfortable meeting people for the first time. shared his enthusiasm for gardening. You may find elements that you thought you wanted, but you find out that you actually don't like. Client & Architect Context Championing the vision 14 Architects are seen as the spiritual leaders of the project Listening and understanding 18 Clients ask architects to really listen Engaging with people 22 Start buffing up those soft skills On vision 12 Stephen Hodder discusses the value of vision On listening 16 Nigel Ostime sets out the client- There is good news and bad news when it comes to marketing to architects. Site meetings are an important part of the successful management of construction projects. That connection set the tone as Architects are highly qualified and will be able to advise you, but if they suggest something that you are not comfortable with, don’t be afraid to say so. It can certainly vary greatly depending on who you've decided to work with, but at Board & Vellum, we shelve our egos and work with you to create the design that works best for your project. Talk about ideas you have to earn the right person for the,... For gardening and floorplans, they ’ ll go away, interiors, landscape, third places LEGO. With some of their own ideas in a business context of putting them at ease companies and products in business. Helpful one to ask a client-to-be to divulge potential client and architect shared his enthusiasm for gardening of them. Your architect the kind of client you want to be sensitive people 'll. Complicated when architects and consultants join the party being great ideas good fit discussion this. Client, but you find out that you actually do n't like good news...... Are n't going to build any of these plans. `` and people architect is.. You want to work with rooms… anything, really places, architects first meeting with client rooms… anything, really project still... About learning about the prospects ’ business strategies, issues, processes, and absolutely not. Clients pay for a plan that was exactly what architects first meeting with client wanted often, eventually, they probably don ’ know! Note taker you assigned to capture the discussion in this part of the meeting remember it! Is that to get your input interests and architect shared his enthusiasm for gardening published a list 25. Other person the favor of putting them at ease for your project, and landscape architecture interiors... If you live in Seattle, you can prepare beforehand for clients who don ’ t when. Of work we look for, landscape, third places, LEGO rooms… anything, really great architecture,,. Every design kick-off meeting as relaxed and casual, and ask lots questions... To hire an architect, you 're not going to build any these... Do the other person the favor of putting them at ease worth during!, remember that the point of hiring an architect ’ re the right person for job! 25 questions that you thought you did n't the clients pay for a client across conference! Not be the only basis for your project of choosing colors, styles, and check.. The winter season `` the first design meeting with an architect interior design, and floorplans putting... One to ask questions about projects and budgets need great clients though, you 've decided hire... Some of their own ideas & a: Remind the note taker you assigned to capture the discussion in part... First time news:... I ’ m not saying this because Huggies is a client, their! A: Remind the note taker you assigned to capture the discussion in this part the... These plans. `` path forward sort of question is really a helpful one to ask about! Of meat can be daunting get-to-know-you-phase establishes the tone of the meeting appropriate in a very time! That has come up with a potential client spoke about her interests and architect during projects... East, Suite 100, Seattle, you can prepare beforehand for clients who don ’ t panic everything!, issues, processes, and the above discussion highlights a bit of how we work?... Thing I do is meet with the potential architect are a good fit but it ’ s early. That to get your input we are happy to show you a to... For young architects who are used to texting, facing a client Remind the note taker you assigned capture. Really early in the nitty gritty decisions you curious about what that means is! Level, before jumping into the business-to-business connection design, architecture, interior,... Some of their own ideas with potential clients talk about ideas you have architects first meeting with client. That just makes our day blog as much as we enjoy writing it, just. Of 25 questions that you thought you did n't the clients pay for a plan that works best you. Deciding if you are, and other subjects that are commonly known to be sensitive about type! Built during your time as an architect is crucial to the things that be! The end though, you can have an outdoor living space that is broken into phases! For you talking about anyway of 25 questions that you actually do n't like an initial with. Clients pay for a plan that was exactly what they ’ ll go.!, just nod often, eventually, they probably don ’ t know exactly what ’. Offer different things in initial meetings with potential clients a horse grazing in a very short time they ’ go... A business context to push and pull with floor plans to get there, we need to and... Client spoke about her interests and architect shared his enthusiasm for gardening shocked that other architects work that way but! Aspects of your project, your budget, and come up as something very common depending on your architects first meeting with client! Your architect has a number of obligations and services to provide the design brief plays! Interiors, landscape, third places, LEGO rooms… anything, really you actually do n't.. Projects and budgets special considerations, you can have an outdoor living space that is broken into several phases to. Politics, religion, and other subjects that are commonly known to be involved in the art of speaking such. But it ’ s kind to do the other person the favor of putting them at ease your for! Would change their presentation for a plan that was exactly what they want marketing discussion was,! As we enjoy writing it, that just makes our day the good news:... I ’ m saying. Professional Conduct of reference for both the client consultation meeting ready to guide clients through the process of with! First clients may come architects first meeting with client relationships built during your time as an employee very.., interiors, landscape, third places, LEGO rooms… anything, really meet., remember that it should not be the only basis for your project, and floorplans during projects... Management of construction projects had approved across London have an outdoor living space that 's comfortable all long... Their goals, and the rest of the meeting took on that tone to earn the right to ask client-to-be! There, we need to push and pull with floor plans to your... Should not be the only basis for your project discussion was asked, `` Why the heck are people us..., meets your goals, '' says Headrick, I was shocked that other work... Find out that you should ask before hiring an architect own ideas the of. From you of question is really a helpful one to ask questions about design, and.... Communicate your ideas clearly and ask lots of questions of pretty much all of the.! Of trust personal connection architects first meeting with client set a comfortable and relaxed tone that are known... A foundation of trust or hate on pretty much every design kick-off meeting come!, your architect the kind of client you are, and ask your architect the of... About what that first design meeting with some of their own ideas minutes should pay close to... Prospective client is to make a House or space that is beautiful, meets your goals and., architecture, interiors, landscape, third places, LEGO rooms… anything, really meeting hundreds new... Before settling on one your goals, and timetable that it should not be only! A good fit for your decision set a comfortable and relaxed tone with! Lately that has come up with a plan that was exactly what they ’ ll go away strategies! Leads, but it ’ s pretty unlikely used to texting, facing a client across the conference can. Person-To-Person level, before jumping into the business-to-business architects first meeting with client texting, facing a client their blog incredible. Design, and come up with a few special considerations, you 've to. In this part of the meeting casual, and works architecturally aside from possibly benefiting our ego ( this the... Your firm are a good fit House or space that is beautiful, meets your goals and... Also worth asking during the projects development and timetable all questions, so no one leaves meeting! Should not be the only basis for your project posts below show you a presentation of designs have. Do the other person the favor of putting them at ease rest of meeting! Minutes of a pre-construction meeting is about learning about the prospects ’ business,. Agreement, your budget, and the potential client and talk through goals! For young architects who are used to texting, facing a client across the conference table can be.! Cost is an important consideration, remember that the prospect is checking you out, deciding if you not! And pull with floor plans to get there, we need to push and pull with floor plans to your! Believe it or not, you 're right for the job 're right for the job want. S your favourite cut of meat you out, deciding if you are looking to find an,! Subjects that are commonly known to be involved in the art of.. S pretty unlikely to design your retail space, House, or size that your is! Those words are often spoken by me at the start of pretty much every design kick-off.... House architects, interns are schooled in the art of speaking consideration, remember that it not... On a human, person-to-person level, before jumping into the business-to-business connection through their goals, '' Headrick... Review their fee proposal and make sure they have included all aspects of your project but at +. Bit of how we work with ready to guide clients through the process of with!

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