Once the contract is signed, construction may begin. During this final phase, the architect is your representative on the construction site and makes visits to the site per your request, making sure the contractor is consistent with the contract drawings and specifications. The architect also reviews and certifies payments to the contractor during the construction phase. Any changes that occur during this process are handled by the architect after consulting the owner.

These six phases of a building project can become overwhelming, so the architect's services are crucial in order to have a successful project. As in marriage, both the architect and building owner bring something to the relationship that the other needs. As the owner, you have a building goal as well as the financial resources to realize that goal. The architect brings extensive professional training and experience, creativity, and project management skills. With this combination of different qualities, a building project can become a success as well as an exciting adventure.