5 Essential Questions to Ask Your Architect Before Starting Your Project
- Juan Felipe Diaz
- Sep 17
- 3 min read
Planning a custom home or development? An architect consultation is your first step toward turning vision into reality. Asking the right questions early not only sets expectations but also ensures your project is designed for both beauty and long-term value.
At Markle + Diaz Architects, we’ve guided clients across Orlando, Central Florida, Georgia, and Texas through this process. Here are the 5 questions to ask an architect before hiring, so your consultation builds the foundation for success.
Here are the 5 questions to ask an architect:
1. What Experience Do You Have With Projects Like Mine?
Not every architecture firm in Orlando specializes in the same type of work. Some excel in residential architecture, others in multi-family housing in Georgia, or modern commercial spaces in Texas.
Asking about experience ensures your architect can deliver your specific vision — whether it’s a luxury waterfront home in Winter Park, a multi-family project in Georgia, or a bold contemporary residence in Dallas.
At Markle + Diaz, our portfolio covers custom homes, interiors, and large-scale developments.
2. How Do You Handle Site Planning & Local Regulations?
Site planning and zoning expertise can save you time and money. In places like Winter Garden or Lake Mary, flood zones and HOA rules impact what you can build.
An architect consultation in Orlando should address how the site interacts with zoning laws, setbacks, and neighborhood regulations.
Co-founder April Grimes is both an architect and real estate professional, giving our clients dual expertise in design and property value.
3. What’s Your Design Philosophy?
Your architect’s design philosophy should align with your goals. Do they emphasize modern interiors, timeless exteriors, or energy-efficient homes?
For example, in Central Florida, open-concept living and flexible offices are in high demand, while Texas luxury buyers often prefer expansive layouts and indoor–outdoor living.
At Markle + Diaz, our approach combines innovation, sustainability, and collaboration — ensuring your project is both functional and timeless.
4. How Do You Manage Budgets and Timelines?
One of the most important questions to ask an architect before hiring is how they handle budgets and schedules. The right firm will anticipate challenges and coordinate with contractors to keep projects moving.
In Georgia, this means designing multi-family housing that balances cost with tenant appeal. In Orlando, it’s creating custom homes with luxury finishes that stay within budget.
Our team creates detailed documentation to minimize delays and ensure cost efficiency.
5. What Support Will You Provide During Construction?
A true partner doesn’t stop at the drawings. Ask whether the architect will stay engaged throughout permitting and construction. This ensures your design intent is carried through to the final build.
At Markle + Diaz, we provide construction-phase support for projects across Florida, Georgia, and Texas — from residential architecture in Orlando to commercial spaces in Houston.
Be Prepared for Your Architect Consultation
Asking these architect consultation questions ensures your architect is the right fit for your project and location. Whether you’re building in Orlando, Central Florida, Georgia, or Texas, these five questions will help you move forward with confidence.
At Markle + Diaz Architects, we blend design expertise with real estate insight to ensure your project is both beautiful and a smart investment.
📍 Serving the State of Florida, such as Orlando, Winter Park, Winter Garden, Lake Mary, Ocala, Oakland, Georgia, and Texas.
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