Client Expectations When Meeting With an Architect

Apart from the business aspect, an architect and a client are also partners in a construction project. This is why the meeting that takes place prior to this collaboration is an essential step in securing a construction site. For this reason, it is important to be well prepared for this meeting. It is especially crucial for the client, who will have very specific expectations. 

Ensure the expertise and advisory capacity of the architect

Before entrusting the design of their property to an architect, clients want to be sure that they are dealing with the right professional. So, they want to be confident in your expertise. 

The past projects carried out by an architect are their best business cards. As such, make sure to share your references with the client. They not only attest to your seriousness and experience, but they also allow them to learn more about your background. 

Organising the first meeting on-site, i.e. on the construction site, allows the architect to assess the potential and the constraints with which they will have to handle, but also to help the client to plan ahead thanks to a concrete and productive exchange. Whether you are planning to do new construction, extension or renovation, the latter will be particularly beneficial if you take measurements and create sketches. This will be seen as a sign of your motivation to work on the project and will allow you to show your skills. 

Your ideas and opinions are a testament to your expertise. Detecting a structural flaw in renovating an existing building or identifying load-bearing walls will show the client your skills. 

Also, think about highlighting your network of partners, craftsmen, specialised design offices or even contacts at the local council, to emphasise the fact that you are working with competent and reliable people. 

Finally, although the budget aspect may seem difficult to discuss, it is important to bring it up at the first meeting. By arguing in a precise manner and detailing the budget with the client, you will be able to put forward your expertise. The choice of materials and the price per square metre are all points to be emphasised.  

Professionalism and honesty 

A client will always want to entrust their construction project to professionals in whom they have confidence. Thus, the architect must show the client that they are highly reliable. Of course, punctuality during appointments is essential, it is a rule of politeness and a sign of seriousness. Similarly, after the meeting, the architect must be responsive and provide the potential client with an estimate within a period not exceeding 3 working days. They should then be available to clarify or explain specific points if necessary. 

Transparency will also be appreciated. It is better to be honest and to announce from the beginning the magnitude of certain constraints and the time required for certain stages of the project than to commit to unrealistic deadlines. 

The feeling and the personal aspect of the relationship

Even if the relationship between the architect and the client is professional, the personal aspect should not be neglected. It is essential that there is a flow. The client will be looking for a professional who is personable and who listens. 

As well as listening to them, the client will appreciate your guidance. To do this, do not hesitate to ask questions about the lifestyle, preferences, wants or needs of the future occupants of the house.

Following up after the meeting is just as important and should reinforce the good first impression you have made. So, don't hesitate to personalise your quote with elements you noted during the first meeting, which will show your interest in working on their project. 

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