How do I get an architect to talk to me?

[mrsmortis]

Just that really.

So far I have had a sum total of 2 of the 10 or so I've attempted to contact get back to me.

One of those we didn't like and the other had a change of family circumstances and could no longer take new work.

I'm pretty up front in the initial contact about what we need doing. We have the money in place. I just need someone to actually do the work. The commission is a bit vague as I need someone to tell me what the best way is of getting the extra space I need and there are several ways of doing it (going into the loft, single story extension, double story extension in a different place). But that's why I need an architect. I need someone to help me with the conceptual step.

What do I need to say to get them to talk to me?

[BitOutOfPractice]

God only knows. They truly are a breed apart

[dynevoran]

What area are you in? Mine is great and would definitely call you back!

[OnePlanOnHouzz]

It could be that they are just really busy - I know I'm slightly different (space /concept planner rather than Architect ) but it's my busiest time in the lead up to Christmas ! So maybe they are just a bit snowed under ?!

[BitOutOfPractice]

Sorry but "it's a busy time of year" is a rubbish excuse. Send an email saying that then and offering to call in the new year. In my experience, most architects I've dealt with consider themselves above such trivialities as that

[OnePlanOnHouzz]

I endeavour to answer all emails and even do so when I'm on holiday/weekends etc ! But that's just me ! Others possibly do let them pile up - and that's where communication can break down - and if they aren't that bothered at this stage - then they won't be when they have your cash in the bank either ! So maybe time to look for new ones I'm afraid !

Another tack is to hone down your remit - at the moment it is very wide - with lots of options ! If you ask for one specific - ie the double storey build - that might be easier to quote and then when they are onboard, explore other options perhaps ?
Best of luck !

[mrsmortis]

Thanks for the response. I'm on the Essex/Suffolk boarders if anyone can recommend an Architect.

OnePlanOneHouzz - the problem is that I really don't know what the best option is. I can specify it in terms of I want a kitchen that looks over the garden and that I can have a table in so the kids can be doing their homework while we are working in there and I want an extra double bedroom and bathroom. But I really don't know what the best way is to achieve that in terms of value for money or useable space. I'm happy to pay one fee for the conceptual work and for the rest to be requoted once we know what we are doing though.

[OnePlanOnHouzz]

Feel free to PM me if you want !