You're thinking of approaching an architect, but there might be some answers you need from questions you haven't thought of asking. 

This episode entails a list of questions to ask an architect, when approaching one with regards to being prepared for your project.

In this episode, Ziwu talks about Sustainable Design and a bit on what it entails. 

The principles of sustainable design that is applied in the design of buildings is also mentioned, giving an idea on what it means to apply sustainability to the design of buildings.

The contractor plays an important role in the construction of a building. It is crucial to get a little understanding of what they can and do offer to the built environment. 

Ziwu speaks on the specific roles a Contractor and their team performs on a building project, that help to create the buildings we love and use everyday.

In this episode, Ziwu talks about an Architect and Architectural Designer and the difference between the two. 

The distinction needs to be stated as people refer to themselves as architects when they might not be.

There are moments people approach architects with nothing in hand, but just the idea of a project to be realised. When an agreement is reached with an architect some things are required from a client before any project can begin. 

Ziwu lists out a few things to prepare beforehand when approaching an architect, for when an agreement is reached and a project is to begin. These things will help the architect to better understand your project and the problem(s) they can be able to solve for you.

Finding an architect can be a tedious task and one that must be done right, so as to avoid any future headaches during the design process or construction stage. 

Ziwu lays out a simple process in discovering the right architect for any project you have in mind. 

The process will take you through preparing before the search for an architect, during the search and also what to look out for to find the right fit for your project.

Teamwork is essential in an organisation as well as the management of a project. 

Without it, success at the end of a project becomes a dream, and that is why Ziwu talks about the need for collaboration between the initial parties - architects and their clients - of a project. Collaboration breeds success and should be carefully considered and practices when it comes to any project.

In this episode, Ziwu talks about the processes an Architect goes through in designing and creating a project. Each process is broken down and discussed a little, to bring an understanding of what happens when an Architect is engaged and their services are required.

To learn more use the following links from the teachings of Jorge Fontan and Frank Gehry: 

(1) Jorge Fontan - https://www.fontanarchitecture.com/architectural-design-phases/ 

(2) Frank Gehry - https://www.masterclass.com/articles/phases-of-the-architectural-design-process#7-phases-of-architectural-design

In this week's episode, Ziwu talks about the two budgets that are needed before beginning any building project; The Architect's Budget and the Builder's budget. 

They are separate entities that are crucial for consideration and planning before moving to an Architect and Contractor for their services. 

Both budgets are discussed along with their benefits to having them at the ready for any building project.

This week, Ziwu talks about the things that influences society to think an architect's fees are off the charts and not worth the trouble in consulting them on projects. 

He then goes on to talk about some factors to consider that squarely affects architectural fees that are quoted by architects. 

Source: Parker Seminoff Architects; https://www.parkerseminoff.com/qa-architects-fees/