A freelance architect essentially performs all of the tasks that architects are trained to perform. The only difference is that a freelance architect is self-employed and does not work for a company. As a result, the freelance architect may work on projects such as site planning, building plans and designs, landscape architecture, plan construction, and consulting. Other duties include evaluating potential sites as part of feasibility studies and putting together a construction team on behalf of a client.
One of the responsibilities of a freelance architect is to collaborate with a client on construction projects. Most clients do not have a specific design in mind and delegate that responsibility to the architect, who will then develop a building concept that will serve as a proposal that the client can accept, reject, or request feasible modifications. Typically, the architect will draw up a plan depicting the building’s various attributes, or the architect may use visual reality technology to provide the client with a more realistic view of the proposed building, including virtual walk-throughs that span the entire structure. Because it allows for easier modifications than physical prototypes, this method is highly desirable.
A freelance architect’s other responsibilities include conducting a comprehensive assessment of the proposed site on behalf of the client. In some cases, the freelance architect may even provide assistance in determining the best location for the construction project. The feasibility of the proposed project on the site, or the possibility of safely and effectively erecting a proposed project on the site after considerations such as building codes, safety, and environmental impact, will be part of this assessment. In some cases, the freelance architect will act as a consultant or advisor to clients, answering questions about building codes and other issues that may arise during the course of a construction project.
The freelance architect may be hired to do more than just design the building; he or she may also be hired to help with other aspects of the construction project. This could include finding or assembling a construction team, which could include builders, construction managers, engineers, and other construction professionals. It is possible that the architect will be in charge of project supervision from the design phase to the completion.