If you’re an architect, you’ve probably been asked at least once to design something for free—or for a price so low it barely covers your coffee.
It’s one of the most uncomfortable situations in practice. You want to be kind, but also professional. You want to help, but not at the cost of your livelihood.
To help navigate this common dilemma, I spoke with Ar. Mike Guerrero, Principal of Asian Architects and a respected voice in the Philippine architecture community. His advice is a goldmine for emerging and seasoned architects alike.
How to Respond to Requests for Free or Cheap Design
Ar. Guerrero’s response is simple but powerful:
“If it’s a regular project, there has to be a fee. Architecture is the way I earn a living—hanapbuhay.”
He reminds us that while our profession is creative, it’s also a business. We cannot—and should not—work for free unless we choose to for a deeper reason.
That said, Ar. Mike does take on pro bono work, especially for causes close to his heart:
“I give pro bono design and consultancy when the project is for humanitarian reasons, or for projects that involve the BoP (Base of the Pyramid).”
This distinction is important: pro bono is purposeful, not obligatory.
What If a Client Tries to Negotiate Too Low?Let’s face it—everyone loves a discount. But there’s a smart way to handle negotiations.
Ar. Guerrero shared his personal formula:
- Know your hourly rate—enough to cover your office and personal expenses.
- Estimate how long the project will take.
- Double that time—for revisions, meetings, and unexpected work.
- Multiply total hours by your rate—this is your direct cost.
- Never go below that figure.
“That’s your baseline. If they ask for less, you’ll be working at a loss. Only go lower if the project will bring you more work down the line. In that case, consider it a marketing investment.”
Tips for Young Architects Dealing with Pricing Challenges
For emerging architects, the pressure to accept low-paying work can be overwhelming.
Here’s what Ar. Mike recommends:
“Focus on the value of your service first. Share ideas generously during the first meeting—let your client see your expertise.”
He also emphasizes building business skills early on:
“Know your costs. Understand your time. Learn how to explain your fees. And don’t always rely on the standard fee matrix—use it only as a reference.”
Why This Matters
Architecture is a profession that blends service, creativity, and care. But that doesn’t mean we should give ourselves away for free. Knowing how to talk about pricing—and when to say no—can make all the difference in building a healthy and sustainable practice.
Take it from Ar. Mike: know your value, and stand by it.
Have You Been in This Situation?
Have you ever been asked for a free design? How did you respond?
Share your experiences or tips in the comments—we’re building a community that supports each other through the realities of practice.