2007-06-14 - Communicate with your Architect
Architecture is a relationship between form and function and your ability to clearly describe for your architect the requirements and functions of your building, and proposed methods of operation and management will streamline the development process. Read more on how to communicate with your architect...

Architecture is a relationship between form and function and your ability to clearly describe for your architect the requirements and functions of your building, and proposed methods of operation and management will streamline the development process. This communication should include a thorough discussion of the following suggestions:
 
- Your aims
- Your design style: Are you looking for a design in keeping with the existing building? Do you want a contemporary or high tech design. Are you concerned about having a sustainable/ecological design?
- Your reasons for embarking on this building project: What activities are intended for it?
- Your authority: Who will be making the decisions? About the design? About costs? About day-to-day matters when the project is underway?
- Your overall expectations: What do you hope to achieve by this project? A more comfortable place for you to live in

If you are looking to build a home, it may be helpful to discuss the answers to the following questions. Answering these questions will help you to discuss with your architect your expectations and lifestyle. So,  go over these questions with your architect before you begin designing.

-Where does your family watch television?
-How important is an informal dining room?
-Do you like to give parties?
-Do you regard the bedroom as a sanctuary where you spend many daytime hours? Or, is the bedroom simply a place to sleep?
-Do you need a private area for your computer? Or, would you prefer the home computing center be located in a central location where children can be supervised?
-What bothers you about the house you're living in right now? And, what do you love about your current home?

These questions are a great starting point for your project. Brainstorming and communicating allow for a smoother construction process.