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If you’ve decided to talk with an Architect, you’ll find that time spent preparing will be very beneficial for you.  Some helpful information to bring for your first meeting should include the following:

Site Information

• Survey or plot of your property.  If you are building on a new lot in a subdivision, the developer should provide these for you at no cost.  If you are buying from an individual, you may need to hire a surveyor yourself.
• Be prepared to discuss any unique characteristics of the site such as slope, views and water features.  Photos are helpful if you have them.
• Let the Architect know about any restrictions on the property such as easements, zoning regulations and design guidelines of the development.

Personal Information

• List of people who will live in the house
• List of spaces/rooms and describe how you’ll use them
• Be prepared to discuss your daily routines, as well as areas of concern.  Examples of concerns may include sensitivity to noise or light while sleeping, allergies to any building materials, etc…
• List of items you’ll be bringing such as: Furniture, artwork, collections and vehicles

Project Information

• Discuss your budget; be prepared to talk about your expectations of size and quality of construction.  Be prepared to listen to the Architect’s feedback and ask for this if not offered up.
• Discuss your expectations for scheduling; this should cover the design process as well as construction.  Remember to talk about how long you plan to be in the house.  Again, get feedback on this.
• Idea Book – this can be as simple as tearing out pictures from magazines or as technically advanced as creating a folder of photos on blog sites, such as Houzz or Cultivate (for kitchens).  This book should focus on “ideas” not pre-designed plans.  Bringing house plans can stifle the creative process (and may be breaking the law).  You will have much better results if you focus on rooms or details that appeal to you.  Several websites allow you to search by rooms such as bath kitchen, etc…  You can also find great deals such as windows, cabinets, shelving, fireplaces and stairs.

This may seem like a lot of work, and it is.  If you take the time, you’ll find the process can be a lot of fun and you will discover more about your wants and desires, resulting in a home that truly enhances your life.

Keep in mind that this process is about dreaming and should be enjoyable.  If the work becomes overwhelming, take a break and come back when you’re refreshed.  If you get lost but still want to move forward, ask an Architect for help.  He/She should be more than happy to assist you.

Photo Credit: seier+seier via Compfight