How do you find clients when you’re an architect?

Of course, this kind of opportunity can arise for the “stars” of the industry: but before that happens, most professionals starting out in architecture have to patiently build up their clientele!

In this article, we’ll share some tips on how to develop your network and make a name for yourself when you dream of building…

Step one: define your target audience as an architect

Yes, this is a fundamental step, but one that we often tend to forget, because we want to make ourselves known as quickly as possible, especially when we’re just starting out!

It’s therefore necessary to find out what type of clientele the architect wishes to approach: are they private individuals, homeowners or investors? Are they professionals looking to upgrade their stores or warehouses?

Or are they building or renovating?

Architects need to think carefully about the services they will be offering: pure architectural creation or modification of old buildings, interior design for social housing or a high-end office construction program…

Likewise, you need to clearly define the scope of your work: will the architect confine himself to creating plans, or will he follow the work through to completion?

Use the power of the website to make yourself known

Maryam Seyedan, architect and founder of Seyedan Architecture + Design, tells us that “the website is the main tool for communicating with customers and must be attractive, ‘easy to navigate’ and reflect your company’s identity.”

In one sentence, she sets out the challenges facing architects’ communications today: it’s unthinkable to miss out on the power of a well-designed website that enhances the value of your work.

That’s why it’s important to have an online portfolio, with examples of past and current projects, so that potential customers can gauge the architect’s skills.

In today’s digital world, establishing an assertive online presence is essential for architects, whether they’re established or, of course, just starting out.

After all, most people seek advice, examples and information online before making a decision: for an architectural project, it’s therefore highly likely that many potential clients will first seek information for themselves, using information found on the web.

As we’ve said, it’s important for architects to have a professional-quality website that’s fast and well laid out, showcasing projects, explaining what architectural design means to them, the various services they offer and, if applicable, their rates.

What about social networks to gain notoriety as an architect?

Social networks are also powerful tools for finding customers as an architect.

Our advice is to focus on image-driven platforms such as Pinterest, Instagram and, of course, LinkedIn, the famous network used by professionals the world over.

These networks are ideal for promoting an architect, as they enable you to share photos, sketches or project plans, as well as easily get in touch with interested parties.

According to Eric Reinholdt, architect and founder of 30×40 Design Workshop: “Social networks are a great way to connect with potential clients and showcase your work. I recommend focusing on one or two platforms and using them regularly to create a solid online presence.”

But be careful, being visible on social networks requires regular work: you need to publish articles several times a week that will interest Internet users.

Because of the algorithms used, only publications that are commented on, “liked” or shared will benefit from strong media coverage.

In this respect, it may be worthwhile to rely on a buzz strategy that is not polemical, but attracts attention through its creativity.

Present an attractive portfolio

The portfolio is an essential document for architects, especially beginners.

Of course, it can be complicated to put together if you haven’t yet contributed to the construction of many buildings: in this case, it may be worthwhile to work in a recognized architectural practice to start collecting examples.

Nevertheless, all architects have created models and plans using CAD (computer-aided drafting) or CAE (computer-aided design) software: these documents can easily find their place in a quality portfolio.

And don’t forget to include any hand-drawn sketches or imaginary projects, which can be visualized using 3D digital images.

What’s more, the portfolio can be printed on high-quality paper, as well as in PDF format, which can be easily distributed as an e-mail attachment or downloaded from a website.

Set up partnerships with other trades

As an architect, it’s a good idea to set up partnerships with construction-related companies, such as builders, engineering offices or interior designers: it’s an easy way to expand your network and perhaps, in time, your clientele.

It ‘s important to make this clear from the outset, so that neither party feels cheated…

What’s more, by collaborating with other building professionals, architects can offer their customers more comprehensive solutions and additional services: a benefit that can tip the balance in their favor!

What about direct marketing for architects?

Direct canvassing is very much in vogue, i.e. using the power of digital tools such as direct mail, telephone calls or automated SMS messages.

Apart from the legal aspect, since it’s not allowed to canvass private individuals who haven’t given their consent, this can be an interesting avenue to explore, but one that we don’t recommend, especially when you’re just starting out as an architect.

Indeed, today, all professions use digital marketing, and most people have saturated mailboxes: chances are that a new e-mail will be lost among hundreds of messages, or even worse, land directly in the spam folder.

In any case, don’t go it alone if you’re an architect, but rely on the skills of a digital marketing professional: even if a serious service can come at a relatively high price, you’ll avoid unnecessary expenditure on paid advertising or the creation of “sales tunnels” thanks to the consultant’s sound advice.

And last but not least: networking!

Networking is a key element in finding new customers for architects.

There are numerous professional events such as conferences, exhibitions and trade shows.

Events organized by architecture school alumni offices should also be taken into account.

These are great opportunities to meet potential customers and establish contacts with other professionals in the construction industry.

The founder of Gerami Architecture, Mehdi Gerami, also suggests getting in touch with influential people and well-known architects: if you have a particular service to offer or know-how that’s not widely available, this may well be of interest to them, especially in the field of subcontracting: “Seek out relationships with real estate professionals, developers and contractors. It’s important to present yourself as an expert in your field.”

Indeed, it’s easy to build up a solid reputation in the world of architecture if you’re highly specialized in a particular field, such as renovating art deco buildings or creating energy-efficient housing…

In conclusion, it’s clear that for a young architect, acquiring new clients requires an active approach to networking and Internet presence, as well as the development of expertise that will foster recognition as a specialist: it’s as good a way as any to gain recognition in the competitive world of architecture.