- Before you hire an architect, look at some of his/her work.
- Inspect the site of his/her projects personally and take references
from at least
three former clients.
- Find out exactly what services the architect or the firm can
offer and take it down in writing.
- Do not judge the architect by the fee charged, either high
or low. An architect can help minimise your cost. Visit the architect's
office during the course of work, which will help you assess
the progress.
- Trust the architect you hire, but keep all agreements in writing.
Why consult an Architect?
- An architect is aware of all the elements of building like
aesthetics and structure, engineering plumbing, electricity, etc.
- An architect can co-ordinate the activities of different tradesmen
involved in building, like plumbers, electricians, carpenters,
etc., so that they perfom their functions in the right sequence.
- The architect is well versed with functional aspects like placing
the plug points, ventilators, etc., and can work according to
your needs. If your family has short people, it won't help to
have switches placed high on the wall.
- If you are not careful in hiring a reputed contractor, he may
leave with you only a skeletal workforce, once 70% of the construction
is complete. An architect can guide your payments to the contractor,
so the work is completed accurately, within the time frame.
- An architect can help schedule operating costs.
What should you look for in an Interior Decorator?
When you hire an interior decorator for your home or office, here
are a few things to keep in mind:
- Check the firm's credentials.
- Check the interior decor of their own office, it will give
you a fair idea of what they can deliver.
- Talk to the firm's previous clients, inspect some of their
earlier work to check on the quality of materials used and timely
completion.
- Take the quotation, bill of material and drawings in advance
and make sure all agreements are in writing.
- A fairly large architect's firm can also provide interior decor
services. If you hire such a reputed firm, you can be assured
of quality work.
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