Is this the best the AIA can do? I'm sorry, but I read and re-read this article and I really don't think it says anything about the benefits of hiring an architect.
This article assumes the prospective client already values the services of an architect and is about to embark on hiring one. This doesn't speak to the other 99.9% of people building homes that would never consider hiring an architect.
How about an article the speaks of the value an architect can bring to a residential project - in terms of both design and professional services. Perhaps an article chronicling people's good experiences with working with an architect. Perhaps the PR department can hunt down people who have had both the experience of working without an architect and working with one - and can tell why it is money well spent!
I, too have doubts about renewing my AIA membership. One of the reasons is because I feel the AIA just doesn't "get" residential architecture. (Please spare me the preaching about CRAN as I think it is too little, too late)
If this is the best the AIA can do with our dues money, I have to tell you, I am not impressed!
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Edward Shannon AIA
Waterloo IA
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