How to find a GOOD architect?

[aniawl]

Working up to plunge into a side extension of our house and from asking around it seems that while most people were reasonably happy with their builders, a lot were dissatisfied with their Architects.

So how does one find a good one? How do I know whether the architect will be wort their money? What questions should I ask? What should I be looking for?
Help! Construction virgin here!

Check the ARB register, firstly they should be registered on there. Or if using a Architectural Technologist look at the CIAT register.

Have you got any builders in mind for the project? Is there an architect they have a good relationship with? Can recommend?

Invite them round for a consultation. Do they listen to your brief, before commenting on what they think. They need to have a good understand of the space your trying to achieve. Then listen to your suggestion (most people have a vision), they should then offer an alternative suggestion.

Have they got a website, look at their previous projects. Find a architect who deals with residential, not a fancy commercial outfit.

Get fee quotations, look at the detail of what this includes. Concept drawings, 3D visuals, have they submitted any other applications and have a good relationship with the planning authority?

Trust your gut feeling, if you they understand your vision you can probably work with them better.

@Duvetday2day thank you so much! That’s invaluable - great advice!