As an architect, exceeding our clients' hopes and aspirations is the most satisfying experience possible. Working one on one with your client facilitates a collaborative dialogue in daily spaces about how you live, work, enjoy and communicate. Therefore, listening and communicating with your client right from the outset is an architect’s highest priority to ensure that the project is representative of your vision. 

Typically, an architect’s approach to design and building is not a one-size approach but covers all aspects of the process. They are experts and trained to do planning, recording and permitting a project. 

ProsTalk, a Buildeee’s campaign opens up another month with a professional that specializes in modern minimalist design. Architect T. Jordan Ong  has worked in various reputable architectural firms and has risen among the top key employees on all occasions. He has handled hundreds of residential and high-rise projects during his stay in one of his previous firms, where he worked as department head for construction. But having the drive and passion to pursue his goal, he humbly started his own practice in the summer of 2007 and since has expanded his portfolio, designing various projects ranging from high-end residential projects, townhouses, mid-rise buildings, high rise buildings, restaurants and commercial buildings. (Information courtesy of TJSO Architects)

Together with ProsTalk host, Ms. Nathalie Yatco, they talked about the essential relationship between a client and an architect.

Here’s the episode on youtube: Developing the Essential Architect-Client Relationship


Roles

Architect

The role of an architect in a project is to let their clients understand the function and responsibilities of their profession. As above mentioned, they are trained to understand the most critical pieces of information about a construction project that can be found on written documents. They determine the process on such agreements long before clients are drawn and signed up. An architect is a person who plans, designs, and reviews building construction. 'Architectural practice' means the rendering of facilities in conjunction with a building's design and construction.

Clients

Clients should have a better understanding of the process of design and construction as well as their role and duties in the process. If the client does not play the role(s) that the architect intends, this may lead to irritation and misinterpretations. Architects and other professionals aim to help customers thoroughly understand the terms of the Customer/Architect Relationship, including the phases of design and development, as well as the general terms and requirements. While a lack of understanding does not relieve the consumer of contractual obligations, it may lead to needless misunderstandings and disputes.

Expectations

Taking the opportunity to match architectural design with customer expectations and to give some risk management options and to determine how to meet or exceed expectations in order to have a happy customer and a successful project.

A variety of factors can make or break an architect-client partnership due to the dynamic nature of architectural projects. To help you develop and sustain effective relationships, here are tips from architectural experts.


Consistent Communication

In any construction project, communication is a must. Developing an effective communication between an architect and client can be the foundation of building trust. A daily check-in will bring possible concerns to the surface and show the customer you are fully engaged. It is a must to express your design intent to customers in a language that they will understand. Project progress depends on successful communication, and in every project, this is the value of communication. Communication maximizes performance and minimizes risk. Furthermore, if a project manager can establish good contact with its stakeholders, for him and the team, this will mean more projects. Skills for contact.


Proper Expectations

It may be tempting to cave to your client to curry favor if you discover a problem. For instance, if you learn that the project will cost more than the client can afford, even if the client pushes back, it is important to deliver the message without wavering. It is good to have clear expectations, giving others the context and intent to make it clearer and easier to follow. It's about getting individuals to grasp the broader picture. People will understand better and engage more easily with this larger picture.

Being up front on cost and feasibility will also stop you from absorbing expenses beyond the original reach, which can have a negative effect on the project's profit margin.


New and Creative Solutions

One way of developing and maintaining an effective relationship is to have an ability to think about new ways of solving an issue rather than relying on some conventional approach. Imaginative problem solving is important because construction is such an expensive endeavor, costing hundreds of thousands or millions of dollars, it is a huge responsibility for architects to be the steward of that kind of money in the form of a building.

Collaboration between architects and clients should develop and solve complicated problems. An architect is at the core of the process as he/she clearly convey designs back to clients through sketches, renderings, drawings and models. 

Everyone who is involved in the design process wants a project to be successful. This ensures that the goals and budget are open and straightforward and that truthful feedback is given during work sessions. We also expect you to be open to fresh ideas, versatile and pragmatic about the constraints that the site or budget of a project can present.


For more information about our featured professional. Arch. T. Jordan Ong, you can visit his profile and collection at TJSO Architects. You can also check out our pool of professionals to have your partner in building your ideal home.