If you’re thinking about building a home, doing a renovation, or planning something a bit more complex, chances are you’ll eventually need to sit down with an architect.
But what actually happens at that first meeting? Do you need to bring plans? Will there be a clipboard and a hard sell? Not at all.
It’s a relaxed conversation, not a formal interview
At NB Architects, the first meeting is really about getting to know each other. You’ll usually come into the office, have a cuppa, and talk through your ideas. It’s informal but important. We’re trying to understand your vision, your priorities, and whether we’re the right team to help you bring it to life.
We’ll ask about your site (if you have one), your style preferences, how you like to live, and what you hope the finished project will achieve. It’s also a chance for you to ask questions about how we work, what’s involved in the process, and how fees are structured.
You don’t need a perfect plan – but a Pinterest board helps
Most clients arrive with at least a general idea of what they want. Some bring sketches, magazine clippings, or Pinterest boards full of inspiration. That’s great – it helps us see your aesthetic and what excites you. But if you don’t have anything yet, that’s okay too. We’ll guide the conversation to tease out what matters most to you.
If you already have a section or building, we’ll often ask to see it early in the process. The site plays a huge part in shaping the design – sun, views, privacy, wind, access, and of course, council rules all come into it.
We talk about budget early (but no judgement)
It’s always a bit awkward, but we do ask about budget up front. Not so we can spend every dollar – quite the opposite. It helps us steer the design in a direction that’s realistic and prevents you falling in love with ideas that just aren’t feasible. We also understand that some people don’t have a fixed number in mind yet, and that’s fine. We’ll help you shape it as the design evolves.
We don’t quote on the spot – and that’s a good thing
After the meeting, we’ll go away and prepare a tailored services proposal. This outlines the scope of work, the likely process, and our fee structure. We don’t offer cookie-cutter pricing, because no two projects are the same. Your proposal might be a fixed fee, a percentage of the build cost, or another arrangement – it depends on the complexity of the job and how much involvement you want from us.
It’s about fit – both ways
We don’t expect you to commit at the first meeting. Likewise, we’re checking that we’re the right fit for you. We want every project to be enjoyable for everyone involved – and that starts with mutual respect and clear expectations.
In short, the first meeting is a starting point. You don’t need to have everything figured out. You just need an idea, a bit of vision, and a willingness to chat. We’ll help you with the rest.
Thinking of building, renovating or developing?
If you’re planning a project in South Canterbury or beyond, feel free to get in touch. Whether it’s your first home, a complex renovation, or a multi-unit development, we’re here to help make it a smoother, better experience from day one.