Architect – tasks, costs & how to find the right one
- 1. What does an architect do?
- 2. How much does an architect cost?
- 3. Costs by project type
- 4. Architect’s fee – how is it calculated?
- 5. Practical examples
- 6. Typical architectural services and their costs
- 7. Architect vs. construction manager
- 8. Cost-saving tips for your project
- 9. With the right architect, your building project will be a success
A good architect is far more than someone who draws a nice floor plan. They influence living quality, energy efficiency, construction costs, project workflow, and the long-term value of your property. That’s why many homeowners in Switzerland work with an architect – whether for a new build, a renovation, or a feasibility study.
But what exactly does an architect do? Which services are really useful? And what costs should you realistically expect?
In this guide, you’ll find a clear overview of tasks, prices, construction phases, planning processes, and helpful tips on how to find the right architect for your project – whether you want to build a house, renovate an apartment, or develop a plot of land.
What does an architect do?
An architect plans, designs, and manages construction projects from the initial concept through to handover of the completed building. They translate your ideas into a functional, aesthetic, and technically correct design that complies with all legal requirements.
Key responsibilities include analysing your needs, creating design concepts and detailed construction plans, submitting building permit applications, and coordinating all involved specialists such as engineers, building services planners, and other trades. During construction, the architect often takes on site management, monitors costs, deadlines, and quality, and ensures that defects or delays are avoided.
In short: an architect is your strategic partner – turning ideas into reality, reducing risks, and ensuring your building is functional, comfortable, and retains long-term value.
How much does an architect cost?
The cost of an architect depends largely on the type and size of the project. As a general rule: the more extensive the planning, coordination, and site management, the higher the fee.
In Switzerland, many architects base their fees on SIA Standard 102, which provides clear guidelines for calculating architectural fees. Depending on the project phase and scope, fees may be charged as a percentage of construction costs, a fixed fee, or an hourly rate.
Costs by project type
New build
For new construction projects, the architect typically covers all phases: design, permits, execution planning, and site management. The workload is substantial and fees are usually calculated as a percentage of total construction costs.
Typical range: 8–12% of the construction cost.
Renovation
Renovations are often more complex, as existing structures must be assessed, utilities checked, and unforeseen issues anticipated. Planning and coordination efforts are usually higher than for new builds.
Typical range: 10–18% of the construction cost.
Extension / expansion
Extensions require precise planning so that old and new structures work together seamlessly. The effort generally lies between that of a new build and a renovation.
Typical range: 10–16% of the construction cost.
Architect’s fee – how is it calculated?
Percentage of construction costs (SIA 102)
The most common method. The architect receives a percentage based on total construction costs. The exact rate depends on project type, complexity, and scope of services.
Fixed fee
Suitable for clearly defined services such as preliminary studies, building permit applications, or feasibility analyses – especially for smaller or well-defined projects.
Hourly rate
Used for consultations, small planning tasks, or additional services.
Typical hourly rates range from CHF 120 to CHF 180, with higher rates possible for highly experienced specialists.
Examples – realistic price ranges
Single-family home (new build)
Construction cost approx. CHF 800,000–1,000,000
Architect’s fee: CHF 80,000–120,000
Renovation (100–150 m²)
Depending on scope and complexity: CHF 35,000–90,000
Small projects (bathroom renovation, kitchen, interior conversion)
Planning, permits, coordination of trades: CHF 5,000–15,000
Get architect quotes
Free & without obligation
With just a few clicks, you can receive up to 3 architect quotes from verified professionals in your area – making it easy to compare prices and find the right expert for your project.
Typical Architectural Services and Their Costs
Feasibility Study / Consultation
In a feasibility study, the architect analyzes whether a project can realistically be implemented on the existing plot or within the current building structure. This includes clarifying zoning regulations, building law, budget constraints, and potential technical challenges. The study provides planning certainty before major costs arise.
Costs: approx. CHF 2,000 – 6,000
Preliminary Project & Design
During the preliminary project phase, the first concrete solutions are developed: floor plans, space concepts, volume studies, and material ideas. The architect compares variants, reviews structural feasibility and cost frameworks, and develops a design that forms the basis for all further steps. This phase is crucial for quality, functionality, and aesthetics.
Costs: approx. 5 – 10% of the construction sum
Construction Project & Building Permit
In this phase, the architect prepares all plans and documents required for the building permit — including construction descriptions, energy calculations, and technical compliance proofs. They also coordinate with authorities, revise plans if needed, and guide the entire approval process.
Costs: approx. 3 – 5% of the construction sum
Tendering & Contractor Selection
The architect prepares tender documents, requests bids from different contractors, compares offers, and conducts price and contract negotiations. They assess quality, schedules, and cost reliability and recommend the most suitable partners to the client.
Costs: approx. 2 – 4% of the construction sum
Detailed Execution Planning
Here, the architect creates detailed plans for contractors — including dimensions, connections, construction details, and materials. This phase is essential to avoid costly errors during construction and to provide clear specifications for all involved parties.
Costs: approx. 2 – 5% of the construction sum
Construction Management & Cost Control
During construction, the architect coordinates all contractors, monitors timelines, quality, and safety, and ensures that the budget is respected. They document progress, approve partial works, and respond to unforeseen challenges.
Costs: approx. 3 – 7% of the construction sum
Final Inspection & Documentation
After completion, the architect inspects the entire building, prepares defect lists, supervises corrections, and carries out final acceptance. They also compile technical documentation, including plans and manuals required for operation and maintenance.
Costs: approx. 1 – 2% of the construction sum
Architect or General Contractor – Which Is Right for Your Project?
When Is an Architect the Best Choice?
An architect is ideal if you want maximum design freedom and a customized, high-quality solution. They guide you from the initial idea through planning and execution while representing your interests exclusively. Especially for renovations, complex sites, or projects with high design standards, an architect provides valuable creativity and technical expertise. If you want to choose contractors yourself, working with an architect offers the most flexibility.
When Does a General Contractor (GC) or Total Contractor (TC) Make Sense?
A GC or TC is suitable if you want a “single point of contact” solution with minimal coordination effort. The contractor handles planning, coordination, and execution, often offering fixed prices and timelines. This approach is efficient for clearly defined new builds or standardized projects, especially when design flexibility is less important.
Which Is Cheaper? Architect vs. GC/TC
At first glance, GC/TC solutions may appear cheaper due to package pricing and economies of scale. However, design flexibility is usually more limited, and changes during construction can become expensive. An architect offers greater transparency, independent quality control, and material oversight, though this requires more coordination. GC/TC projects are often faster, while architect-led projects offer more flexibility and long-term value.
Cost-Saving Tips for Your Project
Saving money doesn’t mean compromising quality — it means planning smartly. One of the most effective measures is a clearly defined preliminary project. The clearer the scope, the fewer planning changes and extra costs arise later.
Choosing standardized materials and modular solutions can significantly reduce costs, as custom carpentry and bespoke elements are expensive. Reducing design variants also lowers planning complexity and speeds up tendering.
Comparing multiple offers — ideally with identical scopes — ensures fair pricing. Some DIY tasks (e.g. demolition, simple removal work, or painting) can reduce costs, but only if realistically manageable and safe.
With the Right Architect, Your Project Will Be a Success
A construction project is one of the largest investments in life — whether a new build, renovation, or conversion. An architect ensures your ideas are realistically planned, technically correct, and financially controlled. They are your key partner for design, quality, scheduling, and cost management.
Tip: Compare several architects, check references, and look for transparent offers. This not only saves money but ensures the best possible outcome for your project.
Architekt-Offerte erhalten
Free & without obligation
With just a few clicks, you can receive up to 3 architect quotes from verified professionals in your area – making it easy to compare prices and find the right expert for your project.