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Renovating or extending your home is one of the biggest investments you’ll make — financially and emotionally. Most clients start their project full of excitement, but sometimes things don’t go to plan. Communication breaks down, budgets blow out, or the design no longer reflects how you actually live. When that happens, you might start wondering: is it time to change architects?
Why people change architects
There’s rarely one reason. More often, it’s a slow realisation that the partnership isn’t working. Common triggers include:
Poor communication or responsiveness. You’re left chasing updates, or your concerns aren’t being addressed.
Budget and scope creep. Designs look stunning on paper but don’t match your cost reality.
Design misalignment. The architect’s aesthetic doesn’t reflect your lifestyle or vision.
Lack of collaboration. You feel more like a spectator than a client.
Project delays or coordination issues. Builders, consultants and the architect seem disconnected.
Opportunities in starting fresh
While changing architects mid-project can feel daunting, it can also be a turning point. A new architect brings:
Fresh perspective. They can re-evaluate the design to better suit your brief, site, and budget.
Renewed energy. The right fit can reinvigorate your enthusiasm for the project.
Problem-solving experience. Many architects (including us) have stepped into partially-designed projects and successfully resolved stalled or misaligned builds.
Better alignment. A design process built around communication and trust will always yield stronger outcomes.
What to watch out for
Switching architects midstream requires care:
Clarify copyright and ownership. Check your contract — you may need permission to use existing plans or drawings.
Set expectations early. A new architect will need time to review the design, budget, permits, and documentation.
Be transparent. Share what worked and what didn’t with your previous architect so the new one can avoid repeating patterns.
Don’t rush the re-brief. A detailed design conversation is your safeguard against another mismatch.
The value of fit
The relationship between architect and client is personal. You’ll be talking regularly for months, maybe years, so trust and communication are everything. If that foundation cracks, changing architects isn’t a failure — it’s simply resetting to ensure the home you build truly feels like yours.
Thinking about changing architects?
Mark MacInnis Architect specialises in guiding clients through that transition — whether your project is halfway through design or already under construction.
Contact Mark to discuss how to get your project back on track.