Posted on: October 10, 2008
Selecting the right architect is probably the single most important decision for a successful church building project. There are several steps to take in selecting a church architect…
1. Determine Your Budget
Your money spent on an architect will be wasted without first knowing how much you can afford. Contact a reputable church lender with a qualified consulting team to help.
2. Develop a Rough Project Outline
What do you need? What do you want? Dream a little, but prioritize your list, recognizing that your needs should always supersede your wants.
3. Develop a Potential Candidate List
Talk to other churches that have just completed projects, and make a list of your likes and dislikes. Your list should probably have 5-10 potential candidates.
4. Write a Request for Proposal (RFP) and Contact Each Candidate
Your RFP should state your budget (20-25 % lower than your max), your basic project outline, and specific questions to be answered. Ask for an itemized cost, and give a deadline for a response.
5. Review Proposals and Choose Finalists to Interview
Note the timeliness of their response and their answers to your specific questions. Check all references, and reduce your list to about 3 to interview with your building committee.
6. Interview, Choose, and Sign Contract
Some preference should be given to architects in your area. Ask about their willingness to involve the contractor early in the design process (the contractor gives great insight into cost and feasibility).
Once your final choice is made, be sure you sign a contract. If the contract they present does not meet your specific needs, be sure it is revised so that it does.
Now you are ready to start the architectural planning for your project!
Wendell Kruger
Vice President
Foundation Capital Resources