How to start an architecture practice

Before you start

Registration. In many countries you must be registered or licensed to use the title "architect" and to practise. In the UK the title is protected by law and requires registration with the Architects Registration Board. See How to appoint an architect in the UK. Check what applies where you work.
Experience. Starting is easier if you have worked on projects from start to finish, including the technical and contractual side, and know how a practice runs.
Savings and cash. Practices often take months to earn their first fees. Have enough to live and operate for a period without income.
Motivation. Be clear why you want to start, and what kind of practice you want to be.

Decide what you are

A clear position helps you to win work. Think about:

Type of work. Houses, extensions, offices, schools, healthcare, interiors?
Place. Local, national or international?
Approach. What do you believe in, and how do you work?
Size. A one-person studio, or a team?

It is better to be known for something than to offer everything.

It is better to be known for something than to offer everything.
How to start an architecture practice

The legal and business basics

You will need to decide on a structure, such as a sole trader, partnership or company, each with its own legal, tax and liability consequences. Take advice. Then there is:

Registration and tax. Register the business and meet tax obligations, including VAT or equivalent where applicable.
Professional indemnity insurance, which is generally essential, plus other cover such as public liability, employer's liability where you have staff, and cyber cover. See Professional indemnity insurance.
Contracts. A standard written appointment for every job. See How to write a good appointment agreement.
Data protection. Handling personal information of clients properly.
Bank account and bookkeeping. Keep business money separate, and keep good records.

Set up simply

A workspace. Home, shared studio or a small office.
Software and IT. Choose carefully and keep it simple. See Choosing software and IT for a small practice.
A website and portfolio. Show your best work, clearly, truthfully and with permission. See Marketing an architecture practice.
Quality system. Even a simple checklist helps. See Quality assurance in a small studio.

Winning the first jobs

Tell people you know.
Do the first jobs very well. A happy client is your best marketing.
Be visible: join local groups, talk to builders and other professionals.
Price fairly, and know your costs. See How architects set their fees.

Look after cash

Many practices fail not for lack of work but for lack of cash. Invoice on time, chase payment, keep a reserve and watch your costs. See Cash flow in a small practice.

Look after yourself

Running a practice is demanding. Set boundaries, take time off, find a mentor or peer group, and do not carry everything alone.

Grow carefully

Hire when you need to, not before. See Hiring and keeping good people and Growing a small studio.

In short

Be registered and insured, decide what kind of practice you want, keep the business simple, look after cash and clients, and take professional advice on the legal, tax and financial parts.

Start a project