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Design on both sides . Being upfront from the start also avoids wasting time that might be spent redesigning a building to cut costs later on .
3 . Are there any challenges you foresee with my project ? This question can help you manage your expectations on a project and also make you aware of problems you might not have thought about . As a professional consultant , your architect is a bit like a medical specialist who can diagnose potential issues with your project and ‘ treat ’ them to ensure they are resolved as best as possible . But great architects go beyond problem-solving – they also look at how to proactively get the best results for you . Think of it as prescribing the right vitamins and minerals to ensure your project is in top health .
4 . Why should I choose to work with you ? It ’ s important to understand what sets an architect apart from others and where they believe they can deliver value on your project . This question allows an architect to highlight other services , relationships and advantages they can offer you .
For example , you might be able to streamline your project if your architectural firm can handle multiple aspects of it , such as master-planning , urban concepts and landscape architecture or interior design . The firm might also have strong relationships with other professionals who could assist you , such as engineering and construction firms , or they may be able to point you to specialized products and accomplished artisans .
5 . How does your firm prioritise sustainability ? Sustainability goes beyond green building principles – which should be standard practice today . It should incorporate financial robustness and economic contribution too . Find out what the philosophy is at the firm you ’ re considering , how they ensure environmental care , and where they go beyond it .
6 . How does your firm leverage new technologies to better serve clients ? With all the talk of generative AI in architecture and using digital tools to improve the client experience , it ’ s important to know whether the firm you ’ re considering is up-tospeed with making these a reality for clients .
For example , at BPAS , we have a division called Archithera , that ’ s focused on putting technology to the best use for our clients ’ benefit . We ’ ve used generative AI to streamline our design process and rapidly trial a range of designs , such as two - or three-bedroom apartments in various configurations , and parking lots for developments we ’ re working on .”
BPAS has also put technology to use to improve client experience in terms of visualizing the end product . During Covid lockdown , we hand-delivered VR headsets to clients , with a private video link to a 3D project walkthrough . While they weren ’ t able to physically visit their sites or our offices , they could do a 3D walkthrough at home to see what to expect . It was a popular intervention that we ’ ve since implemented into our regular practice processes .
I would advise asking prospective firms about their own technology and digital transformation initiatives . ■
Landseer Collen www . bpas . co . za
Landseer Collen is a Principal Director at BPAS Architects , a multidisciplinary architecture and design firm based in Cape Town . BPAS Architects is a solutions-focused multidisciplinary architecture and interior design firm , founded in Cape Town in 2005 . The company ’ s goal is to turn clients ’ projects from dreams to design to reality .
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