5 Steps For Picking A Great Architect In Manhattan Beach

Current and former clients constantly ask us for recommendations to good architects in the Manhattan Beach area. We have some great references to pass along but we always do so with some extra suggestions of our own.

Because choosing an architect can be an incredibly stressful and difficult task for some, we’ve put together a 5-step checklist designed to simplify and explain the process.

Step 1: Interview Several Prospects 

We can’t stress this point enough. When picking an architect, having a direct referral is great but you want to make sure that you also consider different options. That referral from your close family friend may have been a great catch for their style and workflow but that same architect may not have the vision you do for your home. Be sure to interview several architects before you make your final decision. 

Step 2: Have An Idea In Mind 

We’re not saying that you have to know exactly what you want for your design project. Instead, we suggest picking out a few homes in the area or in magazines/online that you’ve liked. Having even the slightest notion of what you expect from your architect will really help you gauge their work in comparison to your expectations. Luckily, thanks to pinterest and several other online websites, inspiration is only a few clicks away.

Step 3: Get An Architect Involved From The Get-Go  

Because choosing designs and design elements is time intensive, we suggest getting your architect involved right at the beginning. Your architect can help guide you through the design process if they’re involved early enough. Having them on board from the start will also make for a much smoother transition when it becomes time to execute your project.

Step 4: Ask For Their Portfolio

An architect may be highly well known in the Manhattan Beach and South Bay area but that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re the right fit for your project. Always ask to see previous examples of the work they’ve done. The more examples you see the better so don't hesitate to ask for more examples if you only get a few to begin with! Be sure to compare their projects against your own (budget, style, time frame, etc). Their portfolio will give you a pretty great idea of what your project will look like once complete. Be sure to also keep in mind that architects that have done extensive work in the Manhattan Beach and South Bay area will know the different permit requirements, zoning laws, etc. much better than an out-of-towner would.

Step 5: Trust Your Gut!

We can’t stress how important this final step is. Some may discount it as a silly afterthought but always be sure that you feel right about the architect you pick for your project. Time and time again we’ve heard stories of people picking architects because the budget and time was right but nothing else seemed to work. Don’t short yourself on your expectations and always be sure to hold off until you find a great fit that meets all of your criteria.

Although picking an architect is an incredibly serious and important task, always remember to have fun with it! Some may not enjoy the constant shopping around in the process but you always want to keep in mind that finding the right person will truly set the tone for your entire design project so be sure you spend the time to do it right the first time around.

If you’d like recommendations of great architects in Manhattan Beach, shoot us a quick email and we’ll send some references your way!