How to start an architecture business

When you’re looking at how to start an architecture business, there is a lot to consider. Get your business plan sorted early, and you’ll be able to follow your own steps to success.

Architecture is a technically demanding profession. However, it can give you the freedom to create and implement your own designs. Having the innovation to accomplish complex projects is always a rewarding experience for an architect.

Central to being an architect are three main areas:

• Planning
• Designing
• Overseeing construction

Being able to see the whole process through certainly gives a satisfying experience overall. So if you’re looking at how to start a career in architecture, once you complete your training, starting your own architecture business seems like a natural step to take.

Read on to see how to start an architecture business, including some of the key points to follow. Knowing in advance will give you the means to succeed and allow you to find your in the industry.

What qualifications do you need to become an architect?

Qualifications are vital for running a successful business. These act as evidence of your skills and expertise in order for clients to consider your service reliable.

In most cases, as an architect you’ll need to possess a variety of credentials. Often, you’ll also need at least two years’ experience to be recognised as fully qualified. This can be achieved through:

• A university degree
• An apprenticeship degree
• An approved training course

Whatever education you take, it will need to be recognised by the Architects Registration Board (ARB).

There is also a role to be played the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). They offer a range of guidance and training courses to ensure high standards are maintained across the architect industry.

Whatever pathway you think is right, you’ll need to make sure you have the right qualifications and accreditations to be an architect. When you start an architecture business, knowing how customers need to trust your work should be an extra reason to get qualified.

What are the skills required to become an architect?

As a architect working for your own business, you’ll be fully engaged in a range of responsibilities. For example, any day could look different. Ranging from drawing up technical plans to communicating innovative ideas, as well as making sure projects meet the client’s expectations.

With these responsibilities in mind, here are the most applicable skills:

• Attention to detail
• Business management
• Communication
• Networking
• Creativity
• IT proficiency
• Leadership
• Teamwork
• Legal knowledge
• Numerical skills

When you’re looking to start your own architecture business, you need the right skills for the job. So as well as architectural skills, you’ll need a good grasp of business management too.

What equipment will you need to start an architecture business?

Owning the appropriate equipment is vital for creating building designs that require precision. Without the correct tools, you’ll be unable to provide a high-quality architectural service. As a result, that will impact on your ability to grow a reputable business.

This is some of the key apparatus you’ll need to get going:

• Computer for design software
• Format printers and plotters
• Digital camera
• Measuring devices
• Sketching materials

Choosing to start an architectural firm means you have the skills and the vision. With the right tools at your disposal, you’re nearly good to go.

How much do architects earn?

As a very technical and skilled trade, architects can expect to earn a good wage. The average salary will vary depending on experience and position:

• Architect apprentices are an entry level role and can expect roughly between £19,000 and £26,000 annually
• Architectural assistants are also still learning as part of a degree, and can earn between £21,000 and £27,000 a year
• A recently qualified architect will earn an average salary of £30,000
• More experienced and senior architects have a wage that can rise to around £37,000
• A freelance or self-employed architect could even earn as much as £55,000 in a year

As a self-employed architect, you have the potential to earn more as you’ll set your own pay rate. However, this is subject to effectively running your business. It’s important to know how to price a job to get the right balance.

To achieve this, think about location. Setting up your service in an urban area, for example, means you’re more likely to be available for building projects.

How to start an architecture business

Along with qualifications, skills and equipment, starting your own practice involves some key planning elements.

Make sure to set out a full written business plan before you start. That way you have goals and targets to be realistic about your growth and finances.

Here are 4 of the most basic steps to starting your own architectural firm:

1. Registration and structure

The first step to take is legally registering your business to trade and forming a structure to your service. You can choose to be recognised as a sole trader or limited company. Each comes with different regulations. Therefore, it is best to weigh up the options and decide on the right structure for you.

2. Finding your niche

Choose an area of expertise for your architectural service depending on your skillset and interests. For example, there’s no point specialising in office blocks if you can’t stand them. You should also find a relevant target audience. If you enjoy working on housing developments in partnership with builders, why not make this your designated speciality? Pin these details down early on, develop your niche and gain an edge over your competition.

3. Tracking financials

Bookkeeping is a major part of running a business. You’ll need to keep track of your income, expenses, taxes and any other relevant financials. Keeping these well documented is crucial to effective business management.

4. Nail your marketing

As an incredibly skilled trade, there will always be demand for an architects. Particularly as part of the planning process for any construction project. Once the project is up and running, all being well, your involvement will be less. But you still need the job to begin with.

There are many choices to consider with your marketing. Why not read our other article for some much needed ideas?

FAQs

How long does it take to become an architect in the UK?

You are required to complete at least two years of practical experience along with time studying an architectural degree. In total, it usually takes five years to become qualified.

How much does it cost to start an architecture firm?

This will vary completely, with the main expenses being:

• Renting an office space
• A high-performance computer
• Design software
• Format printer and plotter
• Marketing costs

On the surface, an architecture business could be a trade with lower overheads. However, there is risk involved, so you will also need the right insurance in place.

Is architecture a good career?

Architecture is a profession suited to those whom enjoy problem solving and thinking creatively. With our society constantly growing, construction is in high demand, so as an architect you’ll always have new business opportunities. Another benefit is the pay scale stands well above the national average due to the complex nature of the job. Considering the demand and pay rate, architecture certainly seems a worthwhile career choice.

Can I become an architect without a degree?

The only way to become a recognised architect in the UK and begin a reputable business is to qualify with an ARB-recognised degree or training course. However, you can still become involved in building design and other architectural work to gain experience along the way. A common pathway is to consider engineering and design courses through college or lower-level apprenticeships. After learning the basic skills, you can start to specialise before going into further education for an degree in architecture and planning.

Content disclaimer: This content has been created for general information purposes and should not be taken as formal advice. Read our full disclaimer here.