Veteran Architect and QTECT Founder Dr. Nir Buras Offers Tips On Hiring Architects

WASHINGTON - May 23, 2013 - PRLog -- Most consumers in the real-estate market prefer unique design tailored to their individual needs, but settle for cookie-cutter alternatives because they assume that architects are too expensive, too inaccessible, and too risky an investment. To the contrary,  20% of designers work independently rather than for a firm and struggle to reach the market as they seek even modest opportunities to design projects like renovations, rehabilitations, and additions as well as new residential and commercial buildings. Dr. Nir Buras, founder of QTECT (http://qtect.com) and an architect whose blueprints have made imprints on the character of major cities and landmarks like Dulles Metro Station (DC), Grand Central Terminal (NY), and Russell Senate Building (DC), drew from his 30 years of architectural experience to offer tips on choosing the right designer. With housing and job-markets strengthening, more and more homeowners are turning their attention to long-delayed home-improvement projects, and the right architect can implement building codes and regulations that contractors often miss while realizing the full creative potential of each project- translating into a maximum return on investment for their clients. So, Dr. Nir Buras offered these tips for hiring the right architect for any project.

Broaden the Search:

According to Dr. Buras, the most common pitfall of people seeking a designer is relying too heavily- and often exclusively- on word of mouth and personal referrals. “The problem with using a neighbor’s designer, for example, is that- unlike with home-repair and construction work- successful performance is highly subjective so what receives high praise from one person may be unacceptable to another, depending on tastes and interpersonal styles”, Buras explains, adding that entire communities or social circles can end up designed by the same person rendering homes indistinguishable and ill-suited to the widely diverse people inside. Instead, Buras suggests using referrals as a jumping point. Zillow, Houzz, and Angie’s List provide additional referrals and consumer reviews for several architects- increasing the likelihood that the one ultimately chosen is not only competent, but ideal for understanding and translating the buyer’s unique vision.

Look for the Listener:

“Architects tend to be passionate about their design philosophy, but it is the rare gem who is more passionate about yours”, says Buras who recommends declining services from the architect who doesn’t seem to ask enough questions or listen intently enough during or prior to the initial consultation. For Buras, that’s a red flag, a warning that communication failures throughout the design life-cycle will delay the completion of the project with frequent clarifications and corrections as the designer consistently fails to incorporate client feedback into the design.

Don’t Settle for the First Portfolio Liked:

Comparing browsing portfolios to being a dinner guest, Buras says that buyers, like guests, tend to have sincere compliments about the home they are seeing, but don’t want to move in. However, Nir believes that the test of a good fit is being able to see oneself living in the house, bathroom, addition- whatever the finished product may be. “At a minimum, it’s important to review past work that matches the appropriate building/room type, inhabitant capacity, and family structure to ensure that the architect is capable of designing something not only beautiful, but formed to fit inhabitants everyday functions as well”.

Opt for Tech-Based Solutions:

Currently, several companies are using technology to match people to a local designer willing to design on the buyer’s budget and terms- streamlining the search for the right designer. Dr. Nir Buras himself is launching QTECT (www.qtect.com), an online marketplace for architects and interior designers. It will eliminate the risk and hassle associated with finding and hiring an architect or interior designer by leveraging crowdsourcing. 9-15 designers compete to create the best design for any commercial or residential project and if the buyer doesn’t see viable designs, QTECT offers a full refund. In fact, anyone can sign up (http://www.qtect.com) for a chance at free custom design right now. “Architectural industry leaders are stepping up to make ourselves more accessible, and well-informed, forward thinking people will find these options are cheaper and simpler”, observes Buras.

Regardless of the project type, scale, or budget the right architect can enhance results and provide innovative ideas and solutions while a poorly chosen architect can distort the buyer’s vision and disrupt productivity. Consumers should always choose their architect thoughtfully to protect their investments and ensure the highest quality results.

Dr. Nir Buras founded QTECT in 2012 and will launch it’s crowdsourcing design marketplace in the coming weeks. Connect with QTECT on Facebook, Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/qtectdesigns), and Pinterest for design tips and inspiration.

About QTECT: QTECT is a DC based online marketplace which is launching to help residential and commercial property owners and professionals solicit and compare architectural and interior designs risk-free and with unmatched automation, transparency, and interactivity using its proprietary platform (patent pending). Buyers enter project specifications and launch a national contest in which 9-15 designers compete. Buyers review designs as they develop, offer feedback as needed, and select their top 3D designs for use on their project. All designers are compensated. Buyer satisfaction is guaranteed or their money back. QTECT was founded in 2012 and will launch in the coming weeks. Learn more at www.qtect.com.  

If you are a journalist or blogger and would like to schedule an interview, please contact 202.652.0323 or grichards@QTECT.com