If you conduct Google searches like most people, you might search for an architect by typing in “best architect in long beach ca.” What you’ll likely get is a list of (somewhat) local architects who have paid Google to be put at the top of their search results (these are labeled as “Sponsored” listings). Following the Sponsored listings, you’ll find what’s called the “Local Pack” which will include architects in and around Long Beach. After that, you’ll usually get results from websites like Yelp, Houzz, and others that will present you with lists titled something like “10 Best Architects in Long Beach, CA.”
While you might be tempted to go straight to the lists claiming to include the “best” architects in the area, this may not be the best approach. These lists may not even contain only architects, but also interior designers, general contractors, structural engineers, etc. These lists also aren’t based on much. Nobody is curating these lists based on personal or professional experience with the architecture firms. Instead, they are likely created based on computer algorithms.
Instead of doing a search for the “best” architect in Long Beach, you might want to narrow your search a bit based on your specific design project. For example, do a search for “tenant improvement architect long beach ca” or “custom home architect long beach ca.” This type of search should give you a better starting point. You can then go to each of the architect’s websites and learn more about their philosophies and approach to design, and also see their portfolios.
After you’ve compiled a short list of local architects who seem like a good fit for your project, it’s time to start making contact. Call or email their offices or send a message through their website’s messaging system to request a consultation. Some may want to do a consultation over the phone or through a video conferencing platform, while others may invite you to their office for a meeting.
Go to that meeting ready to communicate the scope of your project and what you are looking to accomplish. For example, you could tell them you want to remodel your home to accommodate your growing family, or design a custom home in which you can age in place. If it’s a commercial project, be prepared to tell the architect about your business and its unique needs.
A good architect will listen to your vision, but will also likely have a lot of follow-up questions. You may also want to ask questions of the architect, such as:
- How involved will I be allowed to be during the design process?
- Will you take the plans through the approval process with the city?
- Will you be available to my general contractor should he or she have questions about the plans you draw up?
Listen carefully to their answers and maybe even take notes—especially if you plan to talk to more than a couple of architects.
You’ll also want to get a good sense of how easy the architect is to communicate with. You’ll likely have questions during the process. You want to be working with an architect who will answer them in a way you can understand—and who won’t make you feel like you’re inconveniencing them just by asking.
Take your time to find the best architect for your specific project. Picking the right architect is an important decision that will affect the trajectory of your entire project!
