The selection of an architecture firm in Singapore is based on professional knowledge, experience, and understanding of the specifics of the projects. In this regard, you should always strive to maintain a good relationship with the architect for things to turn out how you expect.
One of the jobs of the architect is to design a building that is both functional and pleasing to the eye. It is the grantee’s job to ensure that both functionality and aesthetics are affordable. With that being said, here are some of the important things you need to know about working with architecture firms in Singapore.
Is Your Architect Really an Architect?
To call yourself an ‘architect’ and describe your work as architectural design, or architectural services, you have to be registered as an architect with the Board of Architects. For one to be registered, you have to do a recognized architectural university degree, complete a minimum number of years work inside the industry, and then pass a written exam and an interview.
Also, you have to do continuing professional development each year. No other design professional has this level of required performance in order to use the title of their profession. Architects have greater legal liability, and a much higher onus put on them than building designers or drafts people do.
They May Have No Idea What Your Project Will Cost
There is a mistaken perception that all architecture firms in Singapore will know what your project will cost to build or renovate. This at times leads a lot of homeowners into trouble, as they count on costing advice from their architect or designer during the design phase, only to be sorely disappointed when they go to tender, and realize that the home design they’ve fallen in love is way and above their budget.
The ideal way to get accurate costing input during your design phase is to bring a builder on board your design team, and pay them as a consultant to work with your designer, advising on buildability and cost along the way. In so doing, your design will develop in alignment with your budget. Never should you leave it only up to the architect or any other designer to tell you what your project will cost.
All in all, you need to look for the best architecture firms in Singapore to ensure you’re in the safest hands possible.
