The Rochester chapter of The American Institute of Architects
Find an Architect
AIA Rochester member firms are comprised of local architectural talent specializing in many project types. Use the dropdown menu to find the right architect for your project.
Download the listing below
Select and Work with an Architect
Why Hire an Architect? What Does an Architect Do?
Working with an architect on your project will add value to your home or building, and can save you money by anticipating and avoiding complications before they arise. An architect understands planning, building codes, design, permitting, construction, and coordination of the engineers and trades and can help you oversee the building construction process. An architect can maximize efficiency to save on utility bills, can suggest materials at differing price points and with sustainability in mind, and can oversee the construction process to make sure the plans are being followed to ensure code compliance and that construction is executed according to the plans. An architect will provide you with a building with solid aesthetics, ensuring ongoing value for your home or building.
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An architect will ask questions to understand what is most important to you, and will look at your needs and existing home/building (if applicable) holistically to help anticipate future flexibility. Architects are well educated and experienced in designing spaces both inside and exterior. Architects are the experts in bringing a project to fruition - they bring an encompassing knowledge about all aspects of the building process to accomplish a vision with fewer surprises for you along the way.
How to Select an Architect
To begin the selection process for finding an architect, take a look at our Finder above or download the pdf for a self-referenced listing of AIA Rochester member architects by building type. Visit their websites to look at examples of their work. You could also look at our recent Design Award winning projects to see if those styles appeal to you. It is also beneficial to seek recommendations from satisfied project owners.
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Reach out to your shortlist of potential architects to discuss your project and to ascertain a good fit. You will want to discuss what services you need (permitting, drawings/documents, cost estimate, oversight of construction, etc.) and what the fee structure will be (generally by the hour, a fixed fee, or a percentage of the construction cost). Fees will vary depending on the project, its complexity, and the services required - for this reason there is not a standard "cost" of an architect that can be given across the board.
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The agreement between you and your architect will be formalized in a written contract outlining scope, services provided, budget, and fees.
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​You can verify that your architect is licensed to practice in New York State via this link.​​​
Additional Resources
Hire an Architect: A quick overview from the AIA
Before You Begin Your Project: 20 Questions to Answer Before You Begin Your New Project
You and Your Architect: FAQ: Solicitation & the Six Steps/Phases of the Project
"Architects are the civic problem solvers
that mayors, policy makers, and civic
leaders didn’t know they needed."
—Kimberly Dowdell, AIA, NOMAC
2024 AIA President at the
2024 U.S. Conference of Mayors