Expertise

Architects are commonly linked to design and technical site supervision, but their role in controlling a project's finances is equally crucial and often overlooked by owners. From awarding contracts to closing accounts, the architect‑project manager is the first line of defence against budget drift. See our Expertise page for details. Tendering assistance (ACT) Before the site even opens, the architect assists the client in selecting contractors. This phase begins with prepar

It's often the first question clients ask. An architect's project‑management fees vary depending on the type of work, its complexity, the regulatory context and the scope of the commission. Our Expertise page describes the different phases of a full commission. Here is how fees are structured and what they actually cover. A percentage of the construction cost The most common form of remuneration is a percentage applied to the pre‑tax cost of the works, typically between 8% an

The handover of the works is one of the most important moments in a construction or renovation project. It marks the transfer of custody of the building from the contractor to the client and starts several warranty periods that carry significant legal and financial consequences. What is the handover of the works? Reception is the act by which the client declares they accept the work, with or without reservations. It is defined by Article 1792‑6 of the Civil Code and applies t

Signing a contract with an architect (project manager) is a binding act for both parties. It defines the scope of the mission, the fees, the responsibilities, and the conditions under which the project will be carried out. Understanding what this contract covers and what it entails is essential to the project's success. Our Expertise page details the seven stages of a full project management assignment. The Order of Architects' standard contracts. The National Council of the