Selecting an Architect
Choice of an architect and/or designer is critical for a project involving renovation or new construction. These professionals will translate ideas and visions into plans and reality. They should be engaged early in the planning process, should be well-qualified for the project, and should be willing to work in a collaborative fashion with the members of the planning committee. Essential qualities and skills for architects and designers include: openness to new ideas, listening skills, and the willingness to learn about and develop an understanding of patients’ and the families’ experience of care and also staff needs and functions. For more information on how to select and how to work effectively with an architect, please visit http://www.aiapvc.org. (The 2001 edition is now available for purchase for $17.50 from the American Institute of Architects’ order department at 800-365-2724).
To locate candidates for the job, the committee can consult with other facilities that have recently completed design projects. Various resources listed below can also be utilized. The planning committee should develop a Request for Proposals (RFP), and applicants should undergo a thorough interview process before a selection is made. Health care consumers should participate in the interviewing process. A well-considered contract must be negotiated as well.
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Parents, medical and nursing staff, other ancillary staff, administrative leaders, and community representatives collaborated to develop the statement of vision and core values that shaped design planning for the children's medical center in at the Medical College of Georgia Augusta. Additionally, after a visioning retreat for the new children's medical center, a parent was appointed to serve on the architect selection committee. |
Architecture Resources
ProFile on the Web
http://www.cmdg.com/profile
This search engine enables locating architectural firms and businesses in the United States
firms by name, location, key personnel, special focus and services. The list, updated daily, is
derived from the complete ProFile database and ProFile, the Architects Sourcebook, published by
Construction Market Data (CMD), business partner of The American Institute of Architects (AIA).
The American Architectural Foundation
www.aafpages.org
The American Architectural Foundation (AAF) is a nonprofit organization that promotes public education
and outreach about architecture; public stewardship of America's architectural heritage; and alliances
between architects and the communities in which they live and practice. The Website includes curricular
materials that help in understanding space, form, pattern, and other architectural concepts.
e-Architect/ The American Institute of Architects
http://www.e-architect.com
This on-line branch of the American Institute of Architects, a professional association for architects
and the architecture profession, has some useful information for the consumer. Its “Client Access”
section includes a beginner’s guide, information on “You and Your Architect,” and
case studies of varied architectural projects. The website also has access to publications, contract
information, a job posting board, and a link to an architect finder (AIA Access).
AIA Access
http://www.aia.org/consumer
This website, which can also be accessed through e-Architect, has an architect finder function and
also provides information such as: “Working with an Architect,” “What do Architects
Do?” and “Why an AIA Architect?”
Center for Health Design
3470 Mt. Diablo Blvd.
Lafayette, CA 94549
(925)299-3631
http://ww.healthdesign.org
The Center for Health Design is a nonprofit, non-membership organization that is working to make people's
lives better by demonstrating that supportive building design can enhance health and well-being. Among the
many useful features of their website is a job posting function. Job listings are free to any company or
organization looking for professionals with a healthcare design or facility planning background.
Patients and Families as Advisors »