First, get everything in writing. In California, an architect is required to have a written agreement with you if you are a first time client. Hopefully the architect you select uses a standard AIA contract or reasonably close version of it that has been vetted by an attorney. The contract should include a brief description of the project, a list of the services to be provided by the architect within the contract as well as services that are excluded, and the fee basis. Most architects will require a fee retainer, and this should be included in the contract.

The architect should typically layout a schedule and the next steps. These vary according to the project. It may be that the architect requires you to assemble more information, or that as-built drawings need to be produced, or that a feasibility study be prepared. This is the input phase when as much data as possible is collected. The design output phase comes a little bit later.

There is no single style to working with an architect, and hopefully you chose an architect who matches your own style. DNM Architect is adept at building project web sites and using technology to communicate with clients through the web. This save both parties a lot of time and money and permits the client to share the design progress with family, friends and other members of the design team. As in all relationships, open communication is the key, whether it be by email, phone or in person, and we take pride in how we make ourselves and all of the project information available at all times.

• CA Architect's Board:
  Consumer's Guide to Hiring an Architect (PDF)

• AIA:
  The Value of an Architect

• AIA:
  You and Your Architect (PDF)

• AIACC:
  Architect's Practice Act (PDF)