Should I work with an architect who isn’t RIBA accredited?
Q. I've approached three architects to come up with designs for my
glass-walled extension. My favourite pitch has come from the only
practice that doesn't have RIBA accreditation. Should I think twice
about using them?
A. Having the ability to dream up a great sketch proposal is an important
part of being an architect, but in truth it is only a small part of the
services offered by these professionals. There are a whole host of
factors to consider when choosing your architect and RIBA membership is
only one of them.
I certainly wouldn't want to make out that the RIBA does not stand
for quality work, but it's important to be aware that there are
many very competent architects who have chosen not to become members of
what is essentially a club. So if your top choice happens to have
decided not to be members of the RIBA, this should not outweigh the
other benefits that might have put them at the top of the list.
On the other hand, there's a very important point that needs to be
made regarding your selection is that it can be very dangerous to
choose your architect simply on the basis of a 'sexy' design.
You need to pick the architects who you feel you can work with the
best. Most likely, they'll be the ones who instill the most
confidence, who communicate with you clearly and who charge their fees
in a way that allows you the level of control that you desire for your
project.
Answered by Hugo Tugman
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