How to find a great architect

Buying, renovating or building a home can be quite a daunting experience. Where do you start? Who do you turn to for advice? Who can assist you through the entire process?

That someone is a qualified architect who will oversee the entire building process and will work with you to design a home that specifically suits your site, personal requirements and budget. It’s like having a suit tailor-made to fit you perfectly, but in this case it’s a whole house.

Unlike a builder or draughtsperson, an architect will design a home that not only looks amazing, but will also feel amazing to live in. They will ensure the orientation is optimised for winter sun and summer shade; they will design for cross-ventilation and prevailing breezes and ensure that any views are given pride of place in the overall design.

Demystifying the process

Launched recently by the Australian Institute of Architects (AIA) and designed to demystify the process and make architecture something everybody can access, Ask an Architect is a new online portal ready to help with all aspects of your home design.

The new website is filled with guidance, tips and tools to help make your dream home a reality. Here, you can see real stories, gather inspiration, ask questions, participate in webinars and engage with an architect.

“The site is a great chance to build a relationship between you and an architect,” says Cameron Frazer from Ask an Architect. “An architect is a valuable and independent partner who can help you through the murky and complex world of building and renovating homes. He or she can be your trusted advisor.”

Affordable fixed-price services

The site also offers a range of affordable fixed-price services such as the home-inspection service ArchiInspect, or ArchiDesign, an introductory design feasibility service that includes floor plans and cost indications.

“The site is a great way to begin working with an architect if you’re not sure where to start or what you want,” adds Frazer. “Our fixed-price services are the perfect answer to achieve the best advice within a budget.”

Renovating or building your own home can be a stressful experience, especially if it’s your first time! So make sure to get professional help to help create your unique, tailor-made home.