What Do Architects Do?

You have a vision of what you want. Now you need to make that vision a reality. Here's how architects can help you:

• Architects see the big picture.
  
• Architects are specially educated to help you define what you want to build, present options you might never have considered, and help you get the most for your valuable investment. They don't just design four walls and a roof -- they create total environments, both interiors and exteriors, that are functional and exciting places in which to work and live.
  
• Architects solve problems creatively.
  Architects are trained problem solvers. Need more room for your growing family?
• Architects can show you how to enlarge your home so you won't have to move. Have a limited budget?
• Architects can propose ways to get more for your investment than you imagined possible.
  
• Architects help you get the most from your construction dollar.
  
• Architects can reduce building costs, decrease your home's energy needs, and increase its future
  resale value through good design.
  
• Architects make your life easier.

Building is a long process that is often messy and disruptive, particularly if you're remodeling or adding on. Your architect represents you, not the contractors. Your architect looks out for your interests and smoothes the process, helps find qualified construction contractors, and visits the worksite to help protect you against work that's not according to plan. Speak with an architect who is a member of The American Institute of Architects (AIA) at the earliest stage of the design process.

Why an AIA Architect?

Like doctors, lawyers and engineers, architects are licensed professionals. The title "Architect" may be used only by an individual who possesses a state license to practice architecture. They are the only professionals in the construction industry who are ethically bound to represent you, the building owner.

Professional qualifications generally include:

• College degree from an accredited school of architecture, requiring five or more years of professional studies
  
• Three years of internship under the supervision of licensed architects
  
• Passage of a rigorous five-day examination

Only those professionals who have fulfilled these requirements, or other requirements as stipulated by each individual state, may legally call themselves architects and practice architecture in the jurisdiction granting the license. Individuals may be registered, or licensed, in more than one state by means of reciprocal licensing agreements among the states.

Get the real thing - Look for "AIA"

Look for the AIA initials after the name of any architect you consider for your project. AIA architects remain current with professional standards through continuing education and subscribe to a code of ethics and professional conduct. These assure clients, the public and colleagues of their dedication to high standards in professional practice.