How to choose the right architect and the questions you should ask

Choosing the right architect is a big decision, and one that shapes how your home looks, feels and functions for years to come.

A renovation, extension or new build is not just about design. It’s as much about how the process is managed, how decisions are guided and how smoothly everything runs from the initial concepts through to you moving back in. The right architect will not only design a beautiful space. They will help make the entire experience feel clear, organised and enjoyable. It should feel like a partnership.

So how do you choose the right architect in London? It starts with asking the right questions before you commit.

We have put together 15 essential questions we (as architects ) would ask for our own renovation works,  so  whether you are just starting out or ready to appoint, these questions will help you assess the right fit and avoid common pitfalls.

Prefer a more visual read? Browse the interactive guide below or scroll down for the full article.

Before you start speaking to anyone, check the essentials first. You want to make sure the fundamentals are in place. Confirm they are properly registered and accredited. This shows they meet the required standards for education, training and professional conduct.

Ask your potential architect these 15 questions

1. How do you approach understanding what a client wants, even if they are not fully sure yet?

Great architects listen first. Look for someone who asks clear, thoughtful questions and takes time to understand how you want to live, not just what you want the space to look like.

Top tip: It is fine if your brief is still forming. A good architect will help shape it with you rather than expect a finished idea from day one.

2. Can you show projects similar in scale, scope or context to ours?

This helps you understand whether they have handled similar challenges, such as conservation areas, tight urban plots or specific budget ranges.

Top tip: Focus on how they solved problems and worked within constraints, not just the finished photos.

3. Who will we be working with day to day?

The person you meet initially may not be your main contact during the project.

Top tip: Ask who your project architect will be, how the handover works, and how involved senior team members remain throughout.

4. How do you balance design ideas with budget, timeline and permissions?

Design needs to work in the real world. A strong architect will show they can manage both creativity and delivery.

Top tip: Look for clear examples where they adapted designs to meet budget or planning constraints without losing quality.

5. What is your approach to sustainability and retrofitting?

Energy efficiency and long term performance are becoming more important in UK homes.

Top tip: Ask how they approach insulation, materials, and reducing energy use, and whether they stay current with building regulations.

6. How do you help set and manage the budget?

Budget control starts early. The right architect will not avoid cost discussions.

Top tip: Ask whether they carry out early cost checks or involve quantity surveyors to keep things on track.

7. What is your fee structure, and what is included?

Architect fees can vary. Some charge by stage, others as a percentage of build cost.

Top tip: Make sure you understand what is included, such as planning drawings, site visits or project administration, and what may be additional.

8. How do you approach early cost planning?

Some architects provide rough estimates, while others offer more detailed cost planning alongside design development.

Top tip: Early cost clarity helps avoid designing something that later needs to be scaled back.

9. How do you handle planning permission and building regulations?

Most architects manage this process, but experience levels vary.

Top tip: Ask about their experience in your borough and how they engage with planning officers.

10. Do you offer design only, or full project involvement during the build?

Some architects stop at planning. Others stay involved through construction.

Top tip: If they are not involved on site, ask how they support you during the build and help resolve issues.

11. What is your communication style?

Good communication makes a big difference over a long project.

Top tip: Agree how often you will receive updates and whether these are meetings, emails or visual reports.

12. Are there any conflicts of interest or limitations we should know about?

Transparency builds trust from the start.

Top tip: Ask about relationships with consultants, suppliers or workload that could affect your project.

13. How do you help us visualise the design before committing?

Understanding the design early helps you make confident decisions.

Top tip: Ask whether they use sketches, 3D models, renders or material samples.

14. How do you handle unexpected challenges during a project?

Every project will face some level of uncertainty.

Top tip: Ask for a real example and listen to how they describe their approach to problem solving and communication.

15. Can we speak to past clients?

Speaking to previous clients can give you a clearer picture of what it is like to work with them.

Top tip: Ask about communication, budget control and how issues were handled during the project.

What to look out for

Asking the right questions is one part of the process. How the architect responds matters just as much.

• Do they show genuine interest in how you want to live?
• Do they listen carefully or move quickly to their own ideas?
• Do they explain things clearly without jargon?
• Do they seem open to collaboration?

Final thoughts

The aim of these questions is not to test an architect. It helps you choose based on how someone actually works, not just how they present themselves. Clear communication, relevant experience and honesty from the start make the whole process easier and more predictable.

Once you have shortlisted one or two architects who feel like the right fit, moving into design and pricing becomes far more productive. You are choosing someone to guide one of the most important projects in your home.

Good luck bringing your home project to life!

Want to see what the top questions that we would ask when choosing an builder? Check out our guide Your guide to choosing the right build partner for your London home renovation plus 10 essential questions to ask before you decide.