How to hire an architect in India

Choosing an architect is one of the biggest decisions in building a home, a farmhouse or a commercial building. This guide explains what an architect does at each stage, the usual ways fees are quoted, and the questions worth asking before you sign.

What an architect does, stage by stage

Brief and site study: the architect listens to how the building will be used, studies the plot and the climate, and agrees the budget and timeline with you.
Concept design: first sketches and plans, shown to you for discussion.
Design development: materials, light, structure and services are worked out in detail.
Drawings and approvals: the working drawings your contractor builds from, and the approvals your local authority requires.
Construction: site visits and supervision, coordination with the structural engineer and the contractor, and checks that the building is built as designed.
Handover: final checks, completion documents and the move in.
The exact stages vary with the project and with the local authority.

Architect, builder, engineer, interior designer: who does what

The architect designs the building and, in full service, supervises its construction. The contractor or builder constructs it. A structural engineer designs the structure. An interior designer plans the finishes and furnishings inside.

In India the title 'architect' is protected under the Architects Act, 1972, and the Council of Architecture keeps the register. Ask any architect you are considering for their registration number.

How architects charge

Fees are usually quoted in one of three ways: as a percentage of the construction cost, as a rate per square foot of built area, or as a fixed fee for a defined scope of work.

What matters more than the headline rate is what it includes: design only, or design together with drawings, approvals and site supervision. Ask for the scope and the fee in writing, with payments tied to stages.

Questions to ask before you hire

Can I see completed projects like mine, and visit one?
Who will work on my project day to day?
What exactly is included in the fee, and what costs extra?
Who handles approvals, and who coordinates the structural engineer?
How often will you visit the site during construction?
How do you deal with changes, and with a budget that is tight?
How will you design for the climate and for the people who will use the building?
Can I speak to a past client?

What to bring to the first meeting

The plot or building details and any documents you have, such as the survey or plan.
Your budget range and your timeline.
Who will use the building, and how: family, guests, staff, customers.
Pictures of places you like, and of places you do not.

Questions

How much does an architect charge in India?

Architects usually charge a percentage of the construction cost, a rate per square foot of built area, or a fixed fee for a defined scope. Ask what the fee includes and get it in writing.

Do I need an architect to build a house?

An architect designs the building, prepares the drawings, helps with approvals and can supervise construction. Many projects need drawings signed by a registered architect for approval; check with your local authority.

How do I check that an architect is registered?

Ask for the Council of Architecture registration number. Only registered architects may use the title in India.

If you are planning a home, a farmhouse, an apartment building or a commercial building, see our architecture services.

Talk to us about your building →

Or write to musingspatialexperiences@gmail.com with a few lines about the building, the place and your timeline.