Architect on a Cliff: Choosing the Right Professionals for Your Luxury Oceanfront Home
For many clients, building their dream home along the Pacific coastline is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. In order to turn your vision into reality, choosing the right architect is paramount. A talented architect will not only help design a stunning home, but also guide you through local building codes and regulations, navigate budget and cost control items, and create something unique and personal to you that offers an exceptional living experience.
Your architect will play a pivotal role in turning your dream into a reality that you and your family will cherish for years to come.
In our experience, there are a number of key considerations that will make the journey of choosing the right architect into an exciting and memorable one:
Defining your Vision
Before jumping online to google a list of local architects, the first step in your process is to identify and define the vision for your oceanfront home:
First and most importantly, how do you want to live? Consider your current and future lifestyle, including design preferences and specific needs. Think about how you want to live, what spaces you need, and who will be living in the home.
Location is key. This will inform the type of lifestyle and environment of where you want to live. Have you already selected a site? If so, what is it about the lot that you absolutely love? If you haven’t chosen a site, what is the one characteristic or feature that you couldn’t live without? Does the site have panoramic views, or does it have any features in the landscape that make it unique?
What about style? Are you looking for a modern, minimalist design, or do you prefer a more traditional and classic approach?
Clearly articulating your vision will help begin to form an idea in your mind that you can relay to your architect, and find someone who aligns with these goals.
Finding the right fit
With a clear idea of what you are looking for in your mind, the next step to finding the right architect is to conduct thorough research. In our experience, the best place to start is to ask for recommendations from family and friends who have worked with local architects.
You can also search online for architectural studios known for their expertise in designing luxury homes and coastal residences. Spend time online looking at their website and portfolio to see if the work resonates with you. If possible, take a drive to go look at their work in context.
First Impressions
With a list of potential architects in hand, arrange to meet with your architect(s). Much like a first date, this step is critical to a long term working relationship. You need to feel comfortable in trusting your vision with them, and will want to feel inspired and confident that they have heard your ideas and concerns. Feel free to ask about their design philosophy and communication style, and how they plan to manage the project.
Your architect should also have a portfolio showcasing their previous work. Pay close attention to projects that might share similar goals as your own vision. This may include aspects such as open plan spaces, expansive glazing, good connections between indoor and outdoor living spaces. Their portfolio will help clarify their unique design aesthetic and attention to detail.
Compatibility and Communication
Selecting an architect isn't just about their design skills; it's also about compatibility and communication. You will be working closely with your architect throughout the project, so a good working relationship is crucial. Choose someone who listens to your input and respects your ideas. Collaboration and clear communication is essential for a successful project.
We recommend that you set up a number of meetings with different architects until you are comfortable (and excited!)
Qualifying Credentials
By law, architects are required to be professionally licensed through a regional oversight committee that acts in the public interest of the industry. As you narrow down the list of potential architects, it’s important to confirm their qualifications. In addition, an experienced architect should have a track record of successful projects, particularly those within a coastal climate. Architects experienced in oceanfront designs will understand the unique challenges and opportunities that come with building by the sea.
Feel free to ask for references and take the time to contact previous clients. Their first hand feedback regarding their working experience with the architect, quality and any challenges encountered will help you gain a deeper understanding of each architect.
Budget and Architectural Fees
For many people, the idea of talking about money, budget and professional fees feels impolite. The reality is that this is one of the most important conversations to have with your architect, and transparency between both parties regarding costs, constraints and fees is important to make sure your expectations are clearly aligned. A well-defined budget and fee agreement are essential to avoid unexpected financial surprises during the project.
It is important to remember that the right architect will add more value to your project, and ultimately, a better home. It is best to work with an architect that you have confidence in, and that aligns with your goals and aspirations.
Invest in your Lifestyle
A skillful architect will combine their expertise in design, engineering, and local knowledge to create a gorgeous home that sits perfectly balanced in its surroundings.
Building a $5+ million oceanfront home is a significant investment, and selecting the right architect is key. By defining your vision and working with someone that you trust and rely on, you can confidently create your idyllic coastal home lifestyle.
