RUTH HASELL AIA ARCHITECT

Saw work she had performed for an acquaintance for overhaul of existing home.  Was hopeful she would provide plans for a nice modest addition to our new home.  We talked about what we wanted and she came and took pictures.  Told me my house was ugly but she would make it work for us!  Anyway, thought she listened to what I wanted but after several renditions and $5000 after, I had enough and had to end the relationship.  She makes nice drawings but plans that the city would never approve!  She would NOT call the city planner and other city departments for information as to what limitations such as set back and requirements before doing her plans.  She wanted us to do all the leg work for the permit process and plan checking. We were naive and expected her, as a professional, to provide these services.  Moreover, she is condescending and draws what she wants to see and not what the client wants.  However, the experience made me very leary but much better at interviewing subsequent architects.  We later found a great architect/builder - a family owned business for 30 years.  We now have a beautiful 4 room 1000 sq. ft. addition!  He was extremely personable and provided great service.  He took care of everything (within 5% over budget).