Client expectations in the purview of architecture

Abstract

Purpose of the study: From the conceptualisation to the construction stage, clients have a wide range of expectations from architects, and sometimes not addressing or meeting these expectations can land both of them in conflicts of interest, which might affect the architect’s career. This study attempts to unfold the dynamics of the client-architect relationships, emphasizing clients’ expectations from architects. Methodology: This research has been conceptualised to cover various aspects of the client-architecture relationships through an in-depth literature review, followed by undertaking a survey. The literature review has touched upon different factors that shape the client-architect relationships, various architects’ theories, and how clients feel. The survey was conducted online amongst 29 architects and 12 clients to get their perspectives on the issue, giving more detailed insights into the topic. Main Findings: The findings have revealed that clients who’ll be personally occupying and using the space have the maximum expectations from the architects who’re designing that space, with these expectations spanning the entire process starting right from their initial interactions to post-occupancy. Most of these expectations and their consequent circumstances become complex where the budgets are strict and tight, as it is difficult for the clients and the architects to compensate for the losses. Novelty/Originality of this study: Architectural practice is an ever-evolving profession, where relationships between architects and clients are not static, but dynamic as per the changing working styles. This study represents a fresh angle of current practicing architects and their views, which may prove beneficial for architects stepping out from colleges to working industry.