How to Interview an Architect: A Seattle Homeowner’s Checklist

Interviewing an architect should feel like a conversation, not a sales pitch. Here is a practical checklist for Seattle-area homeowners to use when meeting with architecture firms.

Before the Interview: What to Prepare

• A rough description of your project (type, size, timeline)
• Your approximate budget for construction (not just design fees)
• Photos of design styles you like and dislike
• A list of your functional priorities (must-haves vs. nice-to-haves)
• Any site constraints you know about (setbacks, trees, slopes, views)

During the Interview: What to Observe

Do they ask more questions than they answer? The best architects listen before they propose. If they are pitching solutions before understanding your project, that is a signal.

Do they show relevant work? Ask to see projects similar in type and scale to yours. A beautiful portfolio of custom homes is less useful if your project is an ADU.

Are they honest about limitations? Good architects tell you what your project cannot include at your budget. Beware of architects who promise everything.

After the Interview: What to Compare

When comparing proposals from multiple firms, compare apples to apples:

• Is the fee all-inclusive or are structural/civil engineers extra?
• Does the scope include construction administration or just permit drawings?
• Is the timeline estimate realistic for your jurisdiction?
• What is the revision policy?

Red Flags

• No license verification offered
• Vague answers about who will actually do your project
• No references available
• Timeline estimates that seem too optimistic
• Fee that seems unusually low (and no clear explanation of what is excluded)

Piper Cole Architects has been practicing in the Seattle area since 2000. We welcome direct questions and encourage homeowners to do their research. Schedule a free consultation. Call 425-753-6452.