When leasing office space there are times when the services of an architect are needed. Essentially, every time the space is going to be renovated, an architect should be involved. Architects usually have areas of specialization. I would seek an architect that has substantial experience in the specific area that concerns your use. If your use is medical, for example, and you are interested in developing the space into an ambulatory surgery center, an architect that has done medical parctices only would not be high on my list. I would want an architect that has done numerous ambulatory surgery centers. Similarly for office space for an advertising company, a law firm or a manufacturing company, you need an architect that can relate to what you will be doing in the space.
You should ask your other consultants such as your real estate broker and attorney for any recommendations they may have and you should interview no less then three architects. The interview process itself can be educational. You should ask each architect to present their qualifications to you and you should give them some basic understanding of what your expectations are from both the qualitative and quantitative perspectives. Take notes during their presentation and have some questions ready at the end of their presentation. Make sure you understand their fee arrangement and the timetable for delivery of their work product. Also, be certain of the scope of the services and the potential need for other services, such as engineering, that may be necessary for the project.
Styles of presentation differ between people and sometimes the better presenter isn't the better architect for your project, so keep your focus on your needs. I like preparing a list of four or five questions that I would have each candidate answer for comparison. The last bit of advice is that you should have confidence in your architect and accept their guidance, so keep that in mind when you make your choice. Ask yourself...will I listen to this person's advice? If you can't imagine really accepting their advice, you better find another architect.
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