What do Architects do?
You have a vision of what you want. Now you need to make that vision a reality. Here's how architects can help you:

• Architects see the big picture
  Architects are specially educated to help you define what you want to build, present options you might never have considered, and help you get the most for your valuable investment. They don't just design four walls and a roof -- they create total environments, both interiors and exteriors, that are functional and exciting places in which to work and live.
  
• Architects solve problems creatively
  Architects are trained problem solvers. Need more room for your growing family? Architects can show you how to enlarge your home so you won't have to move. Have a limited budget? Architects can propose ways to get more for your investment than you imagined possible.
  
• Architects help you get the most from your construction dollar
  Architects can reduce building costs, decrease your home's energy needs, and increase its future resale value through good design.
  
• Architects make your life easier
  Building is a long process that is often messy and disruptive, particularly if you're living in the space while it's under construction. Your architect represents you, not the contractors. Your architect looks out for your interests and smoothes the process, helps find qualified construction contractors, and visits the worksite to help protect you against work that's not according to plan.

What value does an architect provide?
An architect can provide value at each stage of the design process. First, he or she will work directly with you to assess and describe your needs in great depth. Next, the architect's extensive study of design alternatives, some of which you may not have considered, allows you to choose the design most appropriate to your needs. By keeping abreast of the latest construction technologies and materials, architects can recommend materials and construction systems to fit your design and budget.

Why should you hire an AIA architect?
The AIA is the American Institute of Architects, the national professional organization of architects. Members who use the AIA initials after their name are licensed architects; however there are licensed architects who are not members of the AIA. AIA architects benefit from the AIA's focus on their professional needs and the public service obligations of the profession. Members of the AIA have unique access to continuing professional training, timely access to information on new building materials and technologies and, perhaps most important, access to other AIA members who include the best practitioners in the nation.

AIA architects are also guided by and must adhere to the AIA Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct.

How do I become a member of the AIA?
http://www.aia.org/institute/memberapp.pdf to download an application. Then mail this application plus your membership dues to AIA Sierra Valley. If you are a licensed architect, please include a copy of your current license.

What does AIA membership include?
The AIA is a three-tiered organization, which means your membership includes representation at the National, State and Local level. When you become a member of a local chapter, you automatically have State and National membership. Link to membership page on the AIASV website.

How do I become a licensed architect in the state of California?
Where do I get the forms to register with the state to start taking the Architecture Registration Exams?
www.cab.ca.gov