2017-2020 Projects In Progress

ERIC CONNOLLY ARCHITECT B. Environmental Studies, B.Arch, MOAA, MRAIC ... How Do I Choose an Architect and What Should I Expect in Terms of Fees? The Public sometimes has difficulties in deciding upon an Architect to work them. Public in my view includes individual property or business Owners AS WELL as Public Organizations. I would suggest, (I always ask) a potential Client: Are you sure you NEED an Architect? The Ontario Building Code stipulates when an Architect or Engineer or both are a requirement for a Building Permit. In many instances however the retention of an Architect and/or Engineer is not required. In these cases the Client can hire a Designer (Draftsman) who will document the Clients wishes directly onto paper for the Building Permit Application. The local Building Department is able to provide the Public with details on the required qualifications for a Designer. However, it is often the case that the Client’s scope of work or schedule or budget is NOT clear. In this case, an Architect is a useful Team Member. If a project requires specialized design services (usually for large non-residential buildings), I would suggest that consideration be given to employing an Architect who is familiar with the general location and with the personnel of the Authorities having Jurisdiction. The Client should determine if a particular Architect has the experience required for the building type involved AND if he or she understands a Client’s needs and has the time to properly deal with the Project. So.., having done some of the homework noted above, you should discuss a list of potential Architects with Friends, Relatives, Fellow Business Colleagues, Contractors, etc., who may have worked with the Architect in the recent past. You can make some cold calls to some Architects in the area. You can go to an Architect’s WebSITE and you can generally get contact information from the Ontario Association of Architects. For Large or Complex Projects you could consider making a formal Proposal Call to a List of Invited Architects. This is particularly important if you represent a Public Organization or Company as it is a transparent method. In any event, as a Client you should meet the prospective Architect or Architects (you’ll be working together for a long time period). Obtain a written Proposal from the Architect outlining your design requirements and outlining his/her Services and Fees. Fees vary according to the size and the building type and cover a definitive series of Services. I generally break my Services up into subgroups with an Estimated Fee for each. Fees are generally exclusive of HST and Disbursement Costs such as Travel and Printing Costs plus a handling Fee. Most Architects will request a Retainer Fee to undertake the Work, especially with new Clients to show good faith. 16 Main Street South, Suite 201 (Georgetown), Halton Hills, Ontario, Canada L7G 3G5 Telephone: (905) 877-0739 E-mail: [email protected]

New Projects (before new work started)