I am a small practitioner with emphasis in residential design work. In my former and current practice I have shared drawings with Interior Designers/Decorators as a courtesy to my clients more than anything else. For most of my projects it does not require a lot of information transfer or effort and it pays huge dividends in "design team" and client relations. That's way better than the small amount of compensation I might be able to work out. I have confidence in our drawings so at least I know that the "designer" will be working off accurate information and that's a benefit to everyone in the long run. I also typically remove any reference to my firm on the information I share with others not under contract to me. As a "friendly disclaimer" I advise the designer to verify all our information and put the burden of responsibility on them for their work thereby absolving me of any liability. I make sure the client is aware of the "sharing" and gets a copy of the email. If the designer sends me hand sketches of their ideas and wants me to "work it out" I usually send it back to them and ask for ACAD drawings in return. Again, I make sure the client is part of the information trail. If the designer changes significant areas of the work, especially late int he game, and it requires significant effort to revise my work then I discuss it with the client. This sort of thing is addressed in the AIA Agreement to some extent. It's not always easy working with another "designer" who may not share your vision and who creates more work for you but a little professional courtesy goes a long way and may lead to future work. Each situation, "designer" and client is different so each situation requires a thoughtful response.
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Angelo Biondi AIA
Owner
A.Biondi Architects
Highland Park IL
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