This issue’s musings from across the architect’s drawing board ponders how to talk to an architect. When I was in college, which seems like centuries ago, I had two favorite cartoons. One showed a hot dog shaped man opening his mailbox. He was withdrawing an envelope displaying the statement “You may already be a weiner!” The other illustrated a dapper gentleman strutting down the street with cane, beret, and cape. He was flanked by curvaceous supermodels on each arm while another man was shuffling an old blind beggar off the sidewalk. The caption declared, “Out of the way! An ARCHITECT is coming through!”

In our office we have a sense of humor as shown by my project manger Tiffany, behind me, and my intern Stasi.

The first cartoon’s connection to our topic will evolve slowly within this article, but the second one’s link is unmistakable. Many people perceive architects as aloof and condescending. This conception could be a result of the reality that some architects are indeed aloof and condescending. Don’t worry; there are lots of approachable architects, too.

Personal Relationship

The design for your addition or alteration will undoubtedly involve revealing personal information on how you live on a day-to-day basis. Your new spaces need to accommodate your lifestyle and your architect needs to understand these details. You will be showing your architect and her employees every corner of your house and discussing aspects of your life that you may typically keep private. You need to feel completely comfortable with your architect and quickly establish a respectful relationship.

• First Impression. In selecting an architect, you will naturally consider your architect’s skills, education, and experience to successfully complete your project, but you also need to be able to relate to her. Remember you are in charge. From the first meeting and subsequent interactions, is she listening to you? Does she project compassion, allowing you to feel comfortable in discussing your day-to-day habits? If not, move on. It is completely your decision and do not feel compelled to hire an architect solely on resume alone. If you have difficulty talking with an architect before you contract for her services, it is doubtful things will improve after she is on board with you.

• We’re Just People (Generally Speaking). Architects have lives, too. Not everyone is delicately sipping pinot noir and discussing theoretical de-constructionism all the time. Sometimes we just go to movies and hang out. Can you view your architect as both an expert and a person? A shared sense of humor can be a good indicator of compatibility. Did you snicker at the first cartoon above? If you did, we might be a good match. A shared sense of humor is a bridge to strong relationships. A few years ago, my project manger and I laughed at a dry joke told by a potential new hire during her initial interview. We hired her and she continues to be wonderful to work with. She has told us that some of the other architects she interviewed chuckled a bit, while others did not even acknowledge the joke. Can you and your architect share a guffaw?

Be Open

Do not hold back with the thoughts and ideas that you have developed about your project. Magazine clippings, articles, photos are helpful and do not be bashful about sharing them. Your architect should be actively listening and engaged in the conversation. You should expect this level of involvement. Be open to the questions asked by your architect. The more she knows about you, the better her design.

When you are reviewing the architect’s sketches and drawings, be sure you understand them. Not everyone can easily read drawings. Be sure you understand what you are looking at, and if you do not, ask. It may take laying out 2×4s in the backyard to fully understand the scope of the proposed addition. If you and your architect have established a good rapport, then asking her to better communicate the design intent should be second nature.

Get to know your architect before you hire her. Share a story. Share a laugh. Share a bit about yourself, and be sure your architect is someone with whom you can be a wiener. Oops, I mean winner!

John Perkins AIA is a registered Oregon Architect and Certified Sustainable Building Advisor (CSBA) with more than 30 years experience. His office provides commercial and residential design services and “Invisible Additions.” Perkins can be contacted at 503-287-7468 or visit www.perkinsarch.com.