Choosing a commercial architecture firm for your next construction project (or as a potential employer) is a little like online dating…

Your search may begin with viewing pictures and reading profiles, which will likely help narrow down your options. Ultimately, however, it will take an old-fashioned, authentic conversation to determine whether they’re a fitting architecture or interior design partner for you. 

Here’s how to learn about an architect’s or firm’s design approach: 

5 Essential Questions to Reveal an Architect’s Design Approach

An architecture firm’s (or an individual architect’s) design approach can affect everything from teamwork on a project to how well a building works years down the line — which is why it’s crucial to get a good idea of their approach before starting any commercial project.

Use these five questions as conversation starters, so you can get a clear idea of how they work and whether you would partner well together: 

#1: What is your design philosophy?

Every firm has a “big picture” way of thinking. Whether you are a client or potential team member, starting with this open-ended question can help you see what drives the firm’s work and determine if you are aligned on a high level.

If you like their big-picture answer, then it’s time to get a little more specific.

#2 – How do you balance looks and function in a design?

In architecture, a good design isn’t just about aesthetics — it has to perform in a busy, commercial setting. So, try to find out what your potential architect or interior design partner will do to ensure that a space is both pleasant and highly functional. This also provides a great opportunity to ask about previous projects. Bonus points if they’re able to provide examples within your industry, or from projects with a similar scope of work or design approach.

#3 – What is your collaboration and project management style? 

Architecture is a team sport. How a firm works with project managers, engineers, and interior designers on the client side says a lot about their culture and process. So, get granular here. Don’t be afraid to ask about workflow and, crucially, how you will remain involved and/or informed throughout the project. 

#4 – How does your design approach account for future needs?

Commercial spaces need to stand the test of time. Smart design plans ahead for maintenance, adaptability, and efficiency. Ask the architect to share ways their design approach promotes the longevity and flexibility of commercial spaces, so they not only endure but remain functional and appealing even in light of growth, change, and the passing of time.

#5 – Can you share challenges faced or lessons learned during past projects?

Every major design or construction project faces challenges and setbacks, and you want an architect who’s honest about what those have been in the past (and realistic about what they could be in the future). Hearing about or seeing real-world examples will give you an idea of how the firm adapts its approach to different challenges and whether they will tenaciously pursue the successful completion of your commercial design.

Get Started with a Knoxville Architecture Firm

If you’re looking for an architecture firm to make your commercial space a reality, asking these five questions can help reveal whether their design approach will serve you well. 

On the other hand, if you’re an architectural professional looking to join a team aligned with your own personal approach, these same considerations can provide a picture of what it would be like to work with a firm.

Here at George Armour Ewart, Architect (GAEA), we’re always looking for detail-oriented architects, interior designers, and project managers to join our team. If you’re interested in joining a collaborative, community-driven, future-forward architecture and interior design firm in Knoxville, Tennessee, you can contact us online or by email at info@georgeewart.com.