Process Architect Floor Plan Phase 1-4

Hello,
we have finally decided on an architect for our sloping plot.
We have already received the first floor plans.
However, most of the contact is via email. And answers to our questions and requests ([Kamin verschieben, Windfang oder Gästezimmer...]) take about 2 weeks.
Actually, the plan was to submit the building plan in March. But at this pace, it will only happen by the end of the year.

What is the "standard" or best process for working with an architect? How often do you meet? How often can you submit change requests?
I’m a bit worried that it will take us way too long and that we have to drag every idea/answer etc. out of him :(

Thanks and best regards

Let's take a look at the drafts. I would like to see how the architect solved the slope problem.

Changes should be made quickly nowadays. Unless you are not satisfied with the draft and the architect has to start over again.

Make an appointment where you discuss and modify the floor plans. Either in person or via Zoom, etc. The latter has the advantage that you can look better at the shared screen than the three of you in the office. Once the rough floor plan is finished, it should already exist in CAD. You can simply make a small change, see how it looks, then move the wall half a meter again, etc.

And answers to our questions and wishes (move the fireplace, vestibule or guest room...) take about 2 weeks.

If your communication is as "clear" as this sentence, then I am not surprised for five cents.

You should also specify a date in the contract for the planned submission of the application in writing. Have you clearly communicated your wish to submit in March?

For us, it was somewhat faster than expected so far, but we also spoke with our architects at least once a week. From the first drafts to the submission, it still took almost 4 months, as quite a few iterations are needed.

Now, in the detailed planning and tendering phase, we speak 2-3 times a week. Emails are added on top.

Let's have a look at the drafts. I would like to see how the architect solved the slope problem.

Changes should be done quickly nowadays. Unless you are not satisfied with the draft and the architect has to start over again.

It's not the change itself. We like the floor plan. It's more fundamental discussions. For example, we asked ourselves and him whether we would prefer a windbreak or a guest area. (Roughly outlined) - His only answer was that people don't build windbreaks anymore nowadays... Then we would write him an email again now, and so on. It just drags on like that.

I would rather not share the floor plan for now. My husband is against it ;-)

Make an appointment where you discuss and change the floor plans. Either in person or via Zoom, etc. The latter has the advantage that you can look better at the shared screen than the three of you in the office.
When the rough floor plan is finished, it should already exist in CAD. Then you can simply make a small change, see how it looks, then move the wall half a meter, etc.

We met twice and discussed changes. That always went quite well. But now, for example, we waited two weeks for an answer. I'm a bit getting restless. There is no CAD yet. Only the floor plan in 2D, so to speak.

If your communication is as "clear" as this sentence, then I’m not surprised for five cents.

Um, I was talking here about the cooperation between the architect and us. Of course, I have not quoted our email exchange with him here. I think/hope it should be clear that we have communicated more than three words in parentheses -.^ But thanks for your helpful contribution ;-)