ACRE & ANGLE
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Process & expectations 7 min read

Owner–architect process overview

How clients and architects typically work together from first call through construction — roles, decisions, and handoffs.

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The owner–architect relationship is a long collaboration. Understanding the process reduces conflict and improves design outcomes.

Typical sequence

  • Inquiry and consultation
  • Proposal and agreement
  • Programming / discovery
  • Schematic design
  • Design development
  • Construction documents
  • Bidding or negotiation
  • Construction (with optional CA)

Owner responsibilities

Timely decisions, honest budgets, access to the site, and paying consultants/surveys as agreed.

Architect responsibilities

Design leadership within scope, coordination of included consultants, and communication of issues that affect cost or schedule.

Where marketplaces fit

Platforms like Acre & Angle help with introduction and matching. The professional agreement and project still sit between you and the firm.

FAQ

Do I need a builder at the start?
Not always. Many teams introduce builders during design for pricing.
What if we disagree mid-project?
Use decision logs and phase approvals. Contracts should describe dispute and termination paths.
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