Finding a green architect to build your dream home is not an easy task. With the rise of the “going green” movement, many eco-friendly designers and architects are now available to you. However, more is not necessarily better. How do you choose the best architect for your project? How do you know that the architect is truly green? And where do you look? Here we discuss these pressing questions.
GREEN ARCHITECTS DON’T GROW ON TREES
Most green architects list themselves on green design web directories, environmental magazines and design books. Begin your search on the web. You are likely to come up with many names. One way to limit your search is by checking whether your prospective green architects have a LEED certification.
In order to be considered green, architects must pass the LEED exam (leadership in environmental and energy design), which is composed by USBC (The US green building council). It is also a good idea to verify any diplomas, certifications, and professional affiliations of your candidates.
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TALK TO YOUR PROSPECTS FOR GREEN ARCHITECT
Once you narrowed your list to five candidates or so, call or arrange for a meeting (don’t forget to ask if your candidate charges for a meeting). Tell your prospects about your ideal home and ask them for an estimate. Remember that the meeting/phone call is mainly for you to get a feel for your candidates. Since you are going to be working with your green architect closely for the following months, you want to make sure you are comfortable with whomever you choose.
VISIT A FINISHED HOME
Ask to the architect visit a house similar that they designed in style/design to what you envision. There is nothing quite like seeing a finished home when you choose an architect. Take the time to talk to the homeowner about the architect. Were they aware or deadlines? Were they available for questions between meetings? and so on
RIGHT COMPONENT
Take your time Building a home is a long process, and you want to make sure you have all the right components to build the best home. Finding a great green architect is one extremely important step you should take. Searching for the right one may be time consuming, but do not rush it. You will spend a lot of time and money with an architect so you want to be sure that your chosen architect is the right one for you.
