How to Find an Architect in Hawaii

If you are planning to build a home in Hawaii, chances are you will need to find and hire an architect. The state of Hawaii required an architect's stamp for any home plans over 1,400 square feet. Choosing the right architect is extremely important to the success of your overall project. Here are some tips to help you choose the best architect for your project.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Start your search online. Browse architect's websites and get a feel for their design style. An example of a good Hawaii architecture website is listed in the resources section below.

2. Before you hire an architect, make sure that he/she is licensed in the State of Hawaii. You may be able to save a little money in the short term by hiring a draftsman, but there is a reason these guys are not architects and you will not get the same quality of results as you would if you had elected to use a licensed architect.

3. 
   See his work!

   Find out how much experience your architect has. As if you can see any of their projects in person. Definitely ask to see their portfolio. If you are planning to build a large, luxury home it would be wise to consider hiring an architect who has commercial experience as some of the large and luxury homes in Hawaii are similar to commercial projects in size and scope.

4. 
   Should offer wide range of services

   See what services the Hawaii architecture firms you are considering offer. Ideally, they should offer a full range of services including, schematic design, design development, construction documents, bidding, and construction administration.

5. Make sure that any Hawaii architect you are considering has professional liability insurance.

6. 
   How will you communicate?

   If you will be living off-island during the design and construction of your project, see how your architect will communicate with you during the process. They should have online project management software and also have electronic methods of communicating with you. Ideally, you should be able to review your plans over the computer with your principal designer.

7. 
   What will the services cost?

   Understand how Hawaii architects charge. Most charge a percentage of total construction costs, ranging between 7 - 10%.

8. Choose an architect who you feel comfortable with. You will have to work closely with this person for quite some time, so you want to be able to have a good working relationship with him.

9. 
   Photo Realistic Renderings are Important

   Ask if your architect has the capability to create photo-realistic renderings for you. This is great for planning because you can see exactly what your home will look like, inside and out, and having these will help you make key decisions up front, saving time and money in the long run.

10. 
    A Hawaii Based Architect is Best

    If possible, always choose an architect who lives in Hawaii. Designing and building in Hawaii is different than anywhere else and things like trade winds, sun angles, and ocean views should be closely considered when planning a home. An architect who lives in Hawaii is better capable to utilize this information. On-island Hawaii architects are also going to be much better able to manage and oversee the construction portion of your project than an architect who is thousands of miles away on the mainland.

11. 
    Eco Friendly Architect is Better

    Consider choosing an architect who has experience in energy efficient design, even if you don't want an eco house. Energy and water costs are extremely high in Hawaii and an architect who cares about eco design will help you to design your home in a way that will reduce consumption while not sacrificing your way of living.

Resources

• Hawaii Architect Web Site

[veryirie]

on 12/28/2008 Fantastic advice on how to find an architect in Hawaii; thanks for this info!