San Mateo County

“Architecture” isn’t only for museums, corporations, or the wealthy.
Whether you are remodeling the kitchen, creating your dream home, sitting on the building committee for a new school or civic center, or planning a commercial or other building, working with an architect member of the AIA can save time and money by making your new spaces more functional, comfortable, efficient, and environmentally responsible.

You And Your Architect

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"Design and construction are inherently exciting. There are few things more satisfying than a successful project. The secret to success lies in the professional, business and personal relationships between owner and architect. You and Your Architect provides guidance on how to establish and benefit from those relationships."
Contents
1. Getting started
2. Selecting your architect
3. Services Available from Architects
4. Negotiating the agreement
5. Compensating your architect
6. Keeping the project on track
7. How the AIA Can Help

Consumer's Guide to Hiring an Architect

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The California Architects Board (CAB) examines, licenses, and regulates more than 20,000 architects used by Californians.

This brochure provides information on the following:
1. What types of projects do and do not require a licensed architect,
2. How to find and select an architect,
3. What the written agreement between you and your architect should contain, and
4. Budgeting and construction for your project.