Office vs One-Man/Woman-Show: Why Choosing an Architect with a Team Matters

As someone who has spent a lot of time in the architecture world, I can tell you that finding the right architect for your project is crucial. And one of the things that you should definitely look for is a physical office and staff members. Why, you ask? Well, let me explain with a little bit of humor.

First of all, let's talk about the one-person operation. Sure, they might seem like the perfect choice – they're probably affordable and seem to know what they're doing. But let me tell you, there are a few things that you should be aware of.

For starters, when you work with a one-person operation, you're basically entrusting your project to just one person. And let's face it – we're all human, and we all make mistakes. What if that person gets sick or takes a vacation? Who's going to take over your project then?

But that's not even the biggest concern. What if that person's office is just their kitchen table? I mean, I don't know about you, but the thought of my future home being designed on someone's cereal bowl-strewn kitchen counter gives me pause.

Now, let's talk about the benefits of a physical office and staff members. First of all, when you work with an architect who has a physical office, you know that they're serious about their work. They've invested in their business and are committed to making it a success. And when you have staff members, you know that there are people who can step in if your architect is unavailable.

Plus, let's be real – an architect with a physical office just looks cooler. They've got a fancy sign out front and everything. And let's not forget the potential for some sweet office perks – like a break room with free coffee and snacks. I mean, I don't know about you, but I'd be more than happy to take a meeting in a place like that.

So, if you're in the market for an architect, remember – go with the one who has a physical office and staff members. Your future home (and your stomach) will thank you.

Flow is a culturally diverse architectural ecosystem where everyone has a voice and a shot at making a better world through the use of materials, form, and space. Our design philosophy is fueled by the strengths and skills each partner brings into the table to achieve a common purpose: great and impactful architecture for humanity. The process is essentially an organized oasis of resources working in harmony via thoughtful collaboration.

Flow is rooted in the dream of the firm's founding partners to make a place for those without a place in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction industry. This dream became an obsession, and it sparked momentum when the firm was invited to participate in the 2019 Licensing Advisors Summit hosted by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards in Minneapolis. This is where NCARB shared a picture of the board members from all states and jurisdictions and none of them was a person of color. Michael Armstrong, CEO of NCARB, acknowledged that this was a problem and that they did not know what to do about it. Flow founding partner Darguin Fortuna believed that was a problem too and that the firm FLOW would insight change over the years.

Our Company is based out of the North Shore in Salem, Massachusetts. We serve Local, National, and International clients. We have licensed Architects in Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, Connecticut, Pennsylvania & Florida.

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