There are a few phrases that can make architects silently cringe… and roll their eyes. Most of them aren’t meant to be malicious — they usually come from simple misunderstandings about what architects actually do. Architecture isn’t just drawings or creativity; it’s about coordination, code compliance, liability, and guiding a project from concept to construction.
If you’re thinking about hiring an architect, understanding how the profession really works can make the process smoother, more efficient, and far more collaborative. Whether you’re a potential client looking for tips on what not to say, or an architect wanting to commiserate, read on.
Below is a list of things clients have actually said when reaching out about a new project. In many cases, these comments come from a lack of awareness of what architects and other design professionals do – and that’s where the disconnect begins.
The Offensive Phrases
- Just draw it up!
- Just stamp these CAD files
- All we need is your stamp
- It shouldn’t take that long for just drawings
- It shouldn’t cost that much for a small project
- Just give me a price for a kitchen
1. “All you need to do is just draw it up” – Understanding an Architect’s Role
What not to say: “All you need to do is just draw it up.”
This one makes most architects cringe.
What this phrase unintentionally suggests is that an architect’s role is simply a drafting service — as if the design decisions, code analysis, coordination, and liability have already been handled.
In reality, when you hire an architect, you’re not just paying for lines on paper. You’re hiring an expert to interpret building codes, coordinate with structural engineers and other consultants, resolve conflicts before construction, produce a permit-ready set of documents, and assume professional responsibility for that work.
If you truly only need drafting for a fully resolved design that doesn’t require permitting, that’s a different service. But if you’re hiring an architect, you’re asking for much more than “just drawing it up.”
What to say instead: “We have some ideas of what we’d like to do. Can you help us understand what drawings and process are required to build this? What typically goes into a permit set of drawings?”
2. “Can you just stamp these CAD files?” – Why Architects Can’t Sign Off on Others’ Work
What not to say: “We already have CAD files from a designer. Can you just put these on your sheets and stamp them?”
A professional stamp is not a formality. Not to mention a stamp on some CAD files without code information won’t get you a permit.
When an architect stamps a set of drawings, they are confirming the documents were prepared under their responsible control and meet applicable codes and professional standards. That stamp carries legal and financial liability.
Architects cannot ethically or legally stamp drawings that were produced independently and outside of their supervision — even if we review them for code compliance. Responsible control means the work was developed under our direction, not simply checked at the end.
When someone asks us to “just stamp” a set of drawings, they’re unknowingly asking us to assume liability for work we did not create.
That’s not a shortcut — it’s a legal risk.
What to say instead: “We already have some drawings from a designer. What would we need to do to get a building permit?”
3. “We’ll handle the drafting, you just stamp it” – How Liability and Responsible Control Work
What not to say: “We want to work with you. We can have someone CAD it all up and all you have to do is provide your approval and seal.”
This might sound efficient, but it misunderstands how architectural responsibility works.
A professional seal is not a final review applied at the end of a process. It represents that the documents were developed under the architect’s responsible control — meaning the architect directed the work, made key design decisions, coordinated technical requirements, and ensured code compliance throughout.
When an architect applies their stamp, they are accepting professional liability for the documents. That responsibility requires meaningful involvement from start to finish. Drafting and liability cannot be separated.
Architecture cannot be completed independently and then validated with a stamp.
What to say instead: “Can you explain how the drafting process works in your office?”
4. “It shouldn’t take that long for just drawings” – What Goes Into a Permit Timeline
What not to say: “It shouldn’t take that long for just drawings.”
The timeline for permitting is much more than just drawings.
Architectural drawings are the result of design decisions, consultant coordination, code review, and iteration. There is also time allocated to allow for owner review and approval of each phase. Permitting agencies also require review time, and in jurisdictions like San Francisco, review cycles can significantly impact schedules.
What to say instead: “Can you walk us through what is involved in the timeline?”
5. “It’s just a small addition, it shouldn’t cost that much” – Why Small Projects Can Be Complex
What not to say: “It’s just a small addition, it shouldn’t cost that much.”
Small square footage doesn’t mean small coordination or complication.
Additions are often more complex than new construction because they must tie into existing structural systems, utilities, and conditions that aren’t always visible or predictable. Even a modest addition includes a new foundation, walls, roof, windows, and integration with the existing building. Basically, all the parts of a new building, without the size.
Permitting agencies typically require documentation of the entire structure — before and after — not just the new addition.
The new footprint may be small, but the scope of drawings and coordination is not.
What to say instead: “We’re planning a small addition. Can you help us understand what’s involved?”
6. “What do you charge for a kitchen?” – Why Remodels Aren’t One-Size-Fits-All
What not to say: “What do you charge for a kitchen? Just give me a number.”
Architectural fees aren’t flat-rate menu items. They depend on scope, complexity, jurisdiction, consultant involvement, and level of service.
A cosmetic kitchen update that keeps walls, plumbing, and structure intact may not even require an architect at all. But a remodel that reconfigures space, moves walls, and alters structural elements can trigger consultant coordination and detailed construction documents.
Without understanding what you are trying to accomplish, any number would be arbitrary and potentially misleading.
What to say instead: “We’re planning a kitchen remodel and aren’t sure what level of design or permitting it will require. Can you help us understand the next steps?”
Architecture is Much More Than “Just Drawings” or a Stamp
Architecture isn’t magic, and it isn’t “just drawings.” It’s coordination, code interpretation, technical problem-solving, and professional responsibility layered together. The more clearly that’s understood at the beginning of a project, the better the outcome for everyone involved.
Architecture is a collaborative profession built on trust, clarity, and shared responsibility. Most of the phrases above aren’t intentionally dismissive — they’re simply rooted in misunderstandings about what architects actually do. When clients approach the process with curiosity instead of assumptions, projects tend to move more smoothly, and the working relationship is stronger from the start. The most successful projects aren’t driven by shortcuts, they’re built on communication, respect, and a shared understanding of the work involved. If you’re considering hiring an architect, the most valuable thing you can bring to the table isn’t a perfectly formed plan — it’s openness to the process and respect for the expertise involved.
Related Resources:
If you think all you really need is drafting, I wrote a post to answer the question, Do I even need an Architect? And if you’re in San Francisco, the Department of Building Inspection outlines when a permit is required. If you have more questions, leave a comment below or you can contact me.
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