45 Creative And Profitable Side Businesses For Architects (2024)

Table of Contents
Design and Home Improvement Services 1. Interior design services 2. Kitchen and bath remodelling 3. Sustainable architecture consultancy 4. Home technology installations 5. Home furnishing services 6. Custom furniture design 7. Landscape design services 8. Space-planning services for businesses Consultation Services 9. Drafting service consultations 10. Green building consulting services 11. Design management consulting services 12. Digital modelling consultations Manufacturing Services 13. Custom home furniture manufacturing 14. Architectural building model making 15. Desks and workstations for architects 16. Model making and communicating manufacturing processes Creative Writing for Architecture and Interior Design 17. Writing architectural articles and editorial pieces 18. Offering copywriting services 19. Crafting blog posts, social media posts, and product descriptions related to architecture and interior design Selling Artwork Inspired By Architecture 20. Making prints of buildings and structures 21. Selling handmade artwork inspired by architecture Domestic Project Management 22. Construction management 23. Assisting with the design and implementation of home improvement projects Graphic Design Services 24. Creating logos, brochures, and other marketing materials 25. Designing websites for architects and interior designers 26. Creating 3D models of buildings and structures 27. Offering virtual reality services to clients Teaching Architecture Courses Online Or In Person 28. Hosting lectures or workshops about modern architecture 29. Informing students of industry trends and best practices 30. Tutoring college-level courses on drafting techniques 31. Creating online courses about architecture and design Architectural Photography And Videography Services 32. Take photos of commercial structures or residential homes 33. Create visual images using digital software 34. Produce videos of architectural projects Renting Out Short-Term Accommodation 35. Finding and renting out short-term accommodation for tourists 36. Managing the rental process from start to finish 37. Creating attractive listings to attract more guests 38. Offering additional services such as airport transfers or city tours Designing Products For The Architecture Industry 39. Developing products related to architecture and interior design 40. Selling products through an online store or at trade shows 41. Creating custom pieces for clients who need something unique Starting A Youtube Channel For The Architecture Industry 42. Creating videos about architecture and interior design 43. Offering tutorials on drafting techniques or 3D modelling 44. Producing tutorials on how to use architectural software 45. Interviewing architects and designers to share their stories Frequently Asked Questions What ideas should I consider if I want to make money on the side as an architect? What are the best ways to market my side business as an architect? Does it make sense for me to start a blog or website as an architect-based business? Are there any measurement techniques that can be used to evaluate the success of your side business as an architect? What skills do I need to become an entrepreneurial architect and run my own successful side business? Conclusion

Are you looking to make an extra income stream on the side? Are you looking for ideas for side businesses for architects?

Well, you're in luck, as there are a variety of side business ideas that can be tailored specifically to capitalise on the skillset and interests of an architect.

From providing online consultation services to creating custom furniture pieces on the side, there's no shortage of ideas that could benefit your bank account and your career development in the long run.

In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the most profitable side businesses that architects can get involved with—from copywriting and graphic design services to short-term rentals and product design projects, each one offers plenty of opportunity to make good money while developing additional skillsets along the way!

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Design and Home Improvement Services

As an architect, you can make an additional income by providing design and home improvement services. With your expertise, you can offer clients various services such as interior design, kitchen remodels, bathroom updates, landscaping design, and much more.

Let's explore some lucrative design and home renovation services that would be ideal for an architect's side hustle and are worth considering.

1. Interior design services

Interior design services are a great way for architects to make money. With the right skill set, you can offer your clients a range of services such as space planning, furniture selection, colour palette selection, and more.

You can also help them select materials and finishes that will bring their vision to life.

Furthermore, as an interior designer, you must collaborate with clients to design a space that reflects their individual tastes and lifestyles during the initial meeting. This includes creating furniture arrangements that maximise lighting and movement in the room, all while keeping the client's budget, style, and wishes into consideration. Such designs may be presented as sketches, slideshows, 3D renderings, or mood boards.

Interior designers must have a good understanding of costs prior to starting a project. Variables such as company size and the size of the project must be taken into account. On average, interior design projects cost between £1,500 and £12,000 for the designer alone, aside from product purchases, no matter the invoicing approach.

Alternatively, you could charge by the hour. A typical freelance interior designer's hourly wage ranges from £25 - £250, although it also depends on their level of experience, and simply how much they want to charge.

2. Kitchen and bath remodelling

Kitchen and bath remodelling provides clients with the opportunity to turn any bathroom, from an ordinary master bathroom into a show-stopper guest suite. The bathroom is one of the busiest parts of a house; whether it's used for waking up in the morning or winding down at night, this room can make all the difference.

As an architect, you can make kitchen and bath remodelling a profitable side business. You can help clients design and create the perfect bathroom for their needs, from selecting the right fixtures to creating a custom layout that maximises space.

You can also offer advice on materials, finishes, and colours that will bring the client's vision to life. Furthermore, you can provide guidance on how to make the most of their budget while still achieving their desired look.

The cost of kitchen and bath remodelling varies depending on the scope of the project. On average, a full bathroom renovation can cost anywhere from £2,500 to £80,000. The cost of a kitchen remodel can range from £10,000 to £50,000, depending on the size and complexity of the project.

3. Sustainable architecture consultancy

Being an architect, you can greatly benefit from offering sustainable architecture consulting services.

With the right knowledge and experience, you can provide clients with advice on how to design and build green buildings that are energy efficient, use sustainable materials, and reduce environmental impact.

You can also help your future clients develop strategies for reducing their carbon footprint and improving their overall sustainability or offer guidance on how to make their buildings more resilient to climate change.

4. Home technology installations

You can also take advantage of a side business in home technology installation. With the right expertise and experience, you can provide clients with home automation systems, security systems, and other high-tech solutions for their homes.

Moreover, you can provide advice on how to integrate these systems into their existing architecture and design. You can help future clients upgrade their homes with the latest technologies to make their dwellings more secure and energy-efficient.

Nowadays, providing home technology installation services is a great opportunity for architects like you to earn some extra money as we rely on technology so much.

5. Home furnishing services

As an architect, you can provide home furnishing services that involve assisting clients in selecting the perfect furniture, lighting fixtures, and accents for their homes.

By giving advice to your future client on pieces that will be complimentary to their home's existing aesthetics and pieces that fit within their budget, you will be able to help them achieve their desired look.

6. Custom furniture design

Through your expertise and know-how, you can craft custom pieces that perfectly meet the customers' requirements and desires.

From selecting the right materials to creating a custom layout, you can provide guidance on how to bring the client's vision to life. You could also provide advice on how to use their space efficiently and achieve a pleasant ambience.

7. Landscape design services

Services for landscape design, including the evaluation, planning, and creation of outdoor areas, can be a great side business for an architect like you.

This encompasses both private gardens and public parks. A landscape designer will collaborate with the client to develop a plan that meets their goals and complements the beauty of their home or property.

As an architect, you can use landscape design as an opportunity to make additional money, allowing you to leverage your knowledge and expertise to craft natural, functional, and attractive outdoor areas for clients.

Additionally, you can provide advice on how to select the right plants, trees, and shrubs that will thrive in the local climate. You can help your future clients decide how to use hardscaping elements to construct an aesthetically pleasing and unified outdoor area.

8. Space-planning services for businesses

Businesses often require assistance in designing and optimizing their office space to ensure that it is both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

The architect who wants to venture into becoming a space planner is responsible for helping business processes and homeowners maximise their space. You take measurements of the building to determine which furniture items, such as cubicles, desks, equipment, fixtures, and other furniture, should be positioned in the office. Additionally, you take into consideration the total number of employees to figure out how much space can be allotted for each workstation.

You can also provide advice on how to best utilise the available space while also creating a comfortable working environment.

The outlined design and home improvement services are just some of the side businesses for architects that can be profitable. We will talk more about them below. With the right skills and knowledge, architects can create a successful side business that will help them generate additional income.

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Consultation Services

Architects can generate additional revenue by offering consultation services. Through these services, you can advise and guide future clients on the best possible solutions for designing their homes or business unit.

Furthermore, consultation services enable architects to provide information about architectural materials, construction approaches, and relevant guidelines.

Here are some consultation services that architects can offer:

9. Drafting service consultations

It is crucial that architectural drawings are perfect if a drawing is slightly wrong, then the whole budget of the job can be eaten up.

Therefore, there's a strong need for drafting services both in the business sector and also that the domestic sector where an individual may want a simple lean-to extension added to their house.

Without a well-considered drawing, it will be difficult for contractors to fully understand what is required and is likely that the budget will not be stuck.

10. Green building consulting services

Green building consulting services are becoming increasingly popular as more people become aware of the environmental impact of construction and renovation projects.

You can provide green building consulting services to clients who want to ensure that their projects are sustainable and eco-friendly.

As a green building consultant, you can help future clients identify ways to reduce energy consumption, water usage, and waste production during the construction process. You can also provide advice on materials that are environmentally friendly and cost-effective.

This is a great way for you to make a difference in the world while also generating additional income.

11. Design management consulting services

Design management consulting services are another must-try side business for architects.

Being a design management consultant, you will assist future clients to map out and execute the design process from beginning to end. You have to give advice on how to make the most of the existing space while guaranteeing a pleasant working experience.

Moreover, as a design management consultant, you can also help clients develop a comprehensive design strategy that takes into account all of the necessary components, such as budget, timeline, and materials.

As a creative architect, you can use your professional skills and knowledge to assist clients in designing the ideal space while earning additional income in the process.

12. Digital modelling consultations

Digital modelling consultations are a great way for you to leverage your expertise and provide additional value to clients.

Digital modelling is the process of creating 3D models of buildings, structures, and other objects using computer-aided design (CAD) software.

You can offer digital modelling consultations to help future clients create accurate and detailed 3D models of their projects. These consultations can include advice on the best software to use, tips on how to create realistic models, and guidance on how to make the most of the available tools.

This is a great way for you to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies while also generating extra income.

And that is our list of consultation services that architects can offer as side businesses. As you can see, there are plenty of opportunities for architects to make money while also using their skills and knowledge to help clients create the perfect space.

So, if you're an architect looking for a way to diversify your income, these side businesses are definitely worth considering!

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Manufacturing Services

13. Custom home furniture manufacturing

As an architect, you can provide custom home furniture production, which involves crafting furniture designed to meet the exact specifications of the customer using superior materials and construction.

Custom home furniture manufacturing involves designing and creating bespoke pieces of furniture for a client’s home. This could include anything from tables and chairs to beds and cabinets.

14. Architectural building model making

Making architectural models is another excellent side business for you as n architect.

You can use the architectural model to effectively convey your building design or master plan. This useful tool is used in all stages of designing and shows the physical size and presence of the proposed design.

Architectural models can be created with materials such as foam board, balsa wood, and card, or through digital techniques utilising laser cutting and 3D printing. Models are usually scaled-down versions of your design and allow a representation in three dimensions.

15. Desks and workstations for architects

Custom-made ergonomic desks and workstations are becoming increasingly popular.

You could design and make custom-made desks and workstations tailored to your fellow architects' needs. This could include anything from adjustable-height desks to standing desks, as well as ergonomic chairs and other accessories.

You can have the opportunity to capitalise on your knowledge and creativity by constructing customised furniture pieces that are both practical and attractive. With more people spending time working from home, there is an increased requirement for ergonomic desks and workstations that help improve posture and comfort, whilst functionally being big enough.

16. Model making and communicating manufacturing processes

Model-making can also be used to communicate manufacturing processes. You can create models that illustrate the steps involved in a particular process, such as assembling a product or constructing a building.

These models can be used to explain complex processes to clients and other stakeholders, helping them understand the process better and make informed decisions.

The need for model makers is increasing as organisations search for ways to visually demonstrate their operations.

The expenses associated with materials and labour can be significant, meaning architects can also demand a premium for their services.

These are only a few of the manufacturing services and architect-related businesses that can bring you great profits. From crafting customised furniture pieces to model-making, you can have an array of opportunities to make money. By putting in enough effort and utilising your imagination, you can turn these prospects into successful endeavours.

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Creative Writing for Architecture and Interior Design

Using creative writing to showcase your skills and knowledge of architecture and interior design is an excellent method.

You can use creative writing to create compelling stories about your projects, which can be used to attract potential clients. Creative writing can also be used to explain the design process in an engaging and informative manner. This helps future clients understand the complexities of the agile project and appreciate the work that goes into it.

What's more, you can use creative writing to create marketing materials that showcase your work and attract new clients.

17. Writing architectural articles and editorial pieces

Creative thinking is an essential skill for any business career. It helps to generate innovative ideas, solve problems, and develop strategies that can lead to success.

Creative thinking can also help you stand out from the competition by allowing you to think outside the box and come up with unique solutions to complex design challenges. Writing architectural articles and editorial pieces is a great way for you to showcase your creative thinking and demonstrate your expertise in the field.

These pieces can be used to promote your services, share your knowledge, and attract potential clients. Moreover, you can be used to build a portfolio of work that can be used to showcase your skills and experience.

18. Offering copywriting services

Architects who offer copywriting services can help future clients to create engaging content that accurately reflects their brand and showcases their work in the best possible light.

If you are an architect and would like to offer your copywriting services, you can do so on some of the legit freelancing online platforms such as Upwork, Fiverr, and Freelancer.

The professional rate for a copywriter might differ significantly depending on a number of factors. But generally speaking, businesses should spend between £50 and £200 per hour for freelance copywriting services.

19. Crafting blog posts, social media posts, and product descriptions related to architecture and interior design

Crafting blog posts, social media posts, and product descriptions related to architecture and interior design is a great way for you to showcase your knowledge and experience in the field.

By creating content that is both informative and engaging, you can attract potential clients and demonstrate your expertise in the field.

Blog posts can be used to discuss current trends in architecture and interior design, share insights on tactical projects that involve strategic initiatives which you have worked on like digital transformation projects, and provide tips and advice to other architects.

Social media posts can be used to promote services, share photos of projects, and engage with potential clients. Product descriptions can be used to showcase the features and benefits of specific products related to architecture and interior design.

If you are a creative architect who has a passion for writing, especially about architecture and interior design, you must try the above-mentioned side businesses we have outlined. You can generate more income while doing what you love.

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Selling Artwork Inspired By Architecture

You can express your creativity, and make money, by creating artwork inspired by architecture.

Through crafting pieces that reflect your individual style and visual language, architects can develop beautiful, expressive works.

Here are some ideas for selling artwork inspired by architecture:

20. Making prints of buildings and structures

You can generate blueprints of your own designs or pictures of structures you have captured.

These prints can be sold as wall art, framed prints, posters, and other products. You could use a variety of mediums to create prints, such as photography, digital art, painting, drawing, and sculpture. Or also use found objects and recycled materials to create unique pieces.

Your prints could then be sold online through websites such as Etsy, Society6, and Redbubble.

21. Selling handmade artwork inspired by architecture

As an architect, you may produce handmade art pieces based on your designs, utilizing various materials including wood, metal, clay, fabric, paper, or plastic.

Some of these handmade artworks could be simply sculptures or even jewellery. Through your artistic ability, you can create unique and eye-catching pieces that art lovers will appreciate.

In terms of selling your pieces, you may sell your artwork through platforms such as ArtFire and BigCartel or take part in local craft fairs to display your creations and reach out to possible customers.

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Domestic Project Management

Project management is a necessary component of any project to ensure successful completion and fulfilment of objectives, involving the use of processes, tools, skills, methodologies, and deliverables.

It can be described as the practice of leading a team in order to meet goals and complete deliverables within a given timeline.

Thus, domestic project management can be a lucrative side business for an architect like you, as you can charge an hourly rate or a flat fee for your services. You can also offer packages that include multiple services, such as design consultation, construction management, and interior design.

22. Construction management

Construction management involves overseeing all aspects of a construction project, from budget to time frame to safety considerations, etc. A construction manager is in charge of guiding projects through each step of development, no matter their type or size.

As an architect, you can earn extra income by providing construction management services to clients. Your tasks include creating a budget, scheduling tasks, and ensuring that the project is completed on time and within budget.

The construction business is always looking for experienced professionals to manage their projects, so this is a great opportunity for you to make money.

23. Assisting with the design and implementation of home improvement projects

Home renovation projects offer a great way of increasing property value, but they can be complicated and time-consuming. To help homeowners manage these tasks, you can lend your professional support in the form of recommended materials, creative design suggestions, and experienced implementation oversight.

You can also assist with the selection of furniture and other decorative elements to ensure that the project is completed with style and sophistication. By utilising your knowledge and experience in design, you can help homeowners create a beautiful and functional space.

Offering these services, you can generate additional income while helping others improve their homes, however managing multiple tasks ontop or your day job can be challenging.

Therefore here at OCCO London we have developed the Priority Pad, which is a great tool for architects to use when managing multiple projects and taks to prioritise which to do first and which to do later enabling you to be as efficent as possible.

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Graphic Design Services

Having a good grasp of graphic design is an invaluable asset for architects, as it can provide an additional source of income when offering design services. Graphic design also helps to convey your project's vision in the best possible way.

As an architect, you may want to consider these side businesses related to graphic design:

24. Creating logos, brochures, and other marketing materials

As an architect, you can be able to provide graphic design services for the creation of logos, brochures, and other marketing materials.

Logos are a great way to make your potential client's business stand out from the competition and help people remember their brand. Brochures are also an effective way of communicating information about their business services in an attractive and concise manner.

Nowadays, business owners often need someone to produce logos, brochures, and other promotional materials in order to differentiate themselves from the competition and strengthen their online presence.

If graphic design is a passion fo yours, and would like someould like some ideas on side businesses for graphic designers, let look no further than the following blog; 20 Creative Side Business Ideas for Graphic Designers.

25. Designing websites for architects and interior designers

In today’s digital age, having a website is essential for any business. Architects and interior designers need to have an online presence in order to reach potential clients and showcase amazing work.

As such, designing websites for architects and interior designers is a great side business for you. You can use your design skills to create attractive and user-friendly websites that are tailored to the needs of your clients.

Furthermore, you can provide website upkeep services to ensure that the site is regularly updated and functioning optimally.

26. Creating 3D models of buildings and structures

3D modelling is a great way for you to showcase your work and create realistic visuals of buildings and structures.

By creating 3D models, you can provide potential clients with an accurate representation of what the finished product will look like. You can use 3D modelling software such as Autodesk Revit or SketchUp to create detailed 3D models of buildings and structures.

These models can then be used to create virtual tours and building processes, which can help potential clients get a better understanding of the project.

This can be a great opportunity to earn money because 3D models can be sold to clients or used as part of a portfolio.

27. Offering virtual reality services to clients

Virtual reality (VR) is becoming increasingly popular in the architecture industry, as it allows you to create immersive experiences for your clients.

By offering virtual reality services, you can provide potential clients with a realistic view of what their project will look like before it is built.

You can use VR software such as Unity or Unreal Engine to create interactive 3D environments that can be experienced by clients. This can be a great way to earn extra income, as clients are often willing to pay for the unique experience that VR provides.

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Teaching Architecture Courses Online Or In Person

Architects can explore additional sources of income by selling architecture courses online or teaching in a physical classroom. You can use your knowledge and experience to teach students about the fundamentals of architecture, design principles, and other related topics.

Are you an architect looking to share your knowledge and skills? Here are some side business ideas for you:

28. Hosting lectures or workshops about modern architecture

You can give lectures or hold workshops discussing contemporary architecture to share your expertise and insights with others.

These events can be held in person or online, and you can provide a great opportunity for architects to network with potential clients and showcase your work.

By hosting lectures or workshops, you can demonstrate your expertise in the field while also providing valuable insights into the latest trends in architecture.

29. Informing students of industry trends and best practices

As an architect, you can use your knowledge and experience to inform students of industry trends and best practices.

By providing students with up-to-date information on the latest developments in architecture, you can help them stay ahead of the curve and become more successful in their careers. Furthermore, you can also offer advice on how to navigate the industry, such as how to find a dream job or how to market oneself.

What's more, you can also offer mentorship to students, providing them with guidance and support as they embark on their journey in the architecture industry.

30. Tutoring college-level courses on drafting techniques

Teaching post-secondary students drafting techniques is a great opportunity for you to utilize your experience and make some extra money.

You can offer tutoring services to students who are taking courses related to architecture, such as drafting, design, and construction.

By tutoring college-level courses on drafting techniques, you can help them gain a better understanding of the fundamentals of architecture and develop their skills in the field.

Drafting techniques are an ever-changing area of study, which makes it challenging to remain up-to-date on emerging trends and best practices. Fortunately, experienced architects like you can facilitate the learning process by providing students with the knowledge and skills to excel in this field.

31. Creating online courses about architecture and design

Online courses are a great opportunity for you to extend your reach and share your knowledge with a broader audience. Through online courses, you can impart valuable knowledge on topics such as drafting techniques, building materials, construction methods, and much more.

These courses can be offered on platforms such as Udemy or Skillshare, allowing you to reach a larger audience and generate additional income.

Furthermore, these courses can also be used as a marketing tool, helping you promote your services and gain more clients.

Whether it's online or in-person, teaching courses about architecture and design is a great way for you to share your expertise and make some extra money. If you have a passion for teaching about architectural practices, this could be a great side business for you.

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Architectural Photography And Videography Services

Architects can gain more exposure and attract potential clients through architectural photography and videography services.

High-quality images and videos of your projects allow you to showcase your work, demonstrate it, and attract potential clients.

Here are some side businesses for architecture related to photography and videography:

32. Take photos of commercial structures or residential homes

As an architect, you can provide photography services to both commercial and residential customers. You can capture pictures of their buildings or residences, showcasing their signature design elements and defining characteristics.

In order to provide the best quality photos, you should have a good understanding of lighting and composition. You should also be familiar with the latest photography equipment and techniques to ensure that your photos are of the highest quality.

33. Create visual images using digital software

You can also use digital software to create visual images of your projects. By using 3D modelling and rendering software, you can create realistic images that accurately represent the design of your projects.

These images can be used for marketing purposes, such as creating brochures or presentations, or for client presentations.

Furthermore, these images can also be used to showcase the project on social media platforms and attract potential clients.

Adobe Photoshop

Adobe Photoshop is an immensely powerful graphic design application, ideal for creating amazing visuals for architectural projects.

You can make use of Photoshop's extensive features to enhance the quality of your images and create more lifelike depictions of your designs.

Photoshop also allows you to add text, shapes, and other elements to your images, making them more visually appealing and engaging. Furthermore, you can also use Photoshop to create logos, banners, and other graphics for your projects.

Lightroom

Lightroom is a sophisticated image editing software that can be used to enhance the quality of architectural photos.

With its wide range of features, you can use Lightroom to adjust the exposure, contrast, and colour of your images. This allows you to create more vivid and realistic representations of your projects.

Lightroom also has a variety of tools for retouching and enhancing photos, such as cropping, sharpening, and adding filters. This makes it easier for you to create stunning visuals for your projects.

34. Produce videos of architectural projects

You can also produce videos of your projects to showcase your work and attract potential clients. Videos are a great way to capture the essence of a project, as they allow viewers to experience the design in motion.

Videos can be used for advertising, like creating promotional videos or presentations, or giving pitches to customers.

Additionally, they are perfect for demonstrating the project on social media outlets and gaining interest from potential customers.

You should possess a strong knowledge of video editing software and techniques in order to create high-quality videos. Additionally, you should be knowledgeable about the newest video equipment and techniques in order to guarantee your videos' superior quality.

These side businesses are essential for architects. Mastering the skills and tools necessary to create attractive visuals and videos of your projects can help you overtake the competition.

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Renting Out Short-Term Accommodation

Architects can now benefit from the increased availability of short-term rental services enabled by online platforms. It's easier than ever for property owners to rent out their properties to guests looking for short-term accommodations.

We've compiled a list of potential side businesses for this industry to get you started.

35. Finding and renting out short-term accommodation for tourists

As an architect, you can make a good side income by locating and renting out short-term lodging for tourists.

With the rise of Airbnb and other similar services, it has become easier than ever to rent out properties on a short-term basis. You can use your design skills to create attractive and comfortable spaces that will appeal to potential renters.

You can also use your knowledge of building regulations and safety standards to ensure that your properties are up to code.

36. Managing the rental process from start to finish

Architects can also offer services to cover the rental process in its entirety, such as identifying tenant prospects, establishing contracts and agreements, handling rent payments, and upholding all applicable regulations.

You should be knowledgeable about local laws and regulations regarding short-term rentals in order to ensure that your clients are compliant.

Additionally, you should be familiar with the latest technology and trends in the industry in order to provide the best service possible.

37. Creating attractive listings to attract more guests

Using your design skills, you can create attractive listings for short-term rental properties. By creating visually appealing listings, you can draw in more potential guests and increase the chances of a successful rental.

You should be knowledgeable about the latest trends in photography and videography, as well as the best practices for writing effective descriptions.

In addition, you also need to be familiar with the various online platforms used for short-term rentals in order to maximise your reach. For instance, you should be able to create listings on Airbnb, HomeAway, and other similar services.

38. Offering additional services such as airport transfers or city tours

In addition to architectural services, you can also provide airport transfers and city tours for your future clients. By doing this, you can maximize your income and offer a higher level of convenience to your customers.

You need to coordinate with the airport and hire a dependable driver in order to provide your clients with safe and timely airport transfers. City tours are another great way to provide an extra level of service to your guests. You can use your knowledge of the local area to create interesting and informative tours that will appeal to visitors.

Also, you can provide city tours to give guests an in-depth look at the local attractions.

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Designing Products For The Architecture Industry

Designing products for the architecture business is another great way for you to make money. As an architect, you can use your knowledge of the industry to create products that are useful and attractive.

By creating products for the architecture industry, you can generate a steady stream of income while also helping to advance the industry.

Let's take a look at some of the side business ideas for architects in this area:

39. Developing products related to architecture and interior design

To use your design skills, you can develop products related to architecture and interior design.

You can specialize in crafting furniture, lighting fixtures, textiles, and other pieces designed to be both beautiful and practical.

You are able to inject a unique style into any space while creating a map of business capabilities for yourself. To stay on top of the industry, you should seek to remain knowledgeable about the newest trends and create products that are currently in high demand.

40. Selling products through an online store or at trade shows

Architects can increase profitability by selling products online and at trade shows.

By building an e-commerce presence, you will be able to target a wider audience and maximise the likelihood of transactions.

You should be knowledgeable about the latest trends in e-commerce and have a good understanding of how to market your products effectively.

At trade shows, you can showcase your products to potential buyers and establish relationships with industry professionals. This is a great way to gain exposure and increase your customer base.

41. Creating custom pieces for clients who need something unique

As an architect, you can provide tailor-made solutions to your clients by crafting bespoke pieces that cater to the individual needs of each customer.

This allows you to deliver a truly unique solution that is tailored specifically for the customer.

This type of service is especially useful for those who have specific requirements or want something that is not available on the market. You can use your creativity and technical knowledge to craft custom pieces that are both beautiful and functional.

In order to be successful in designing products related to architecture projects, you need to stay informed on the newest trends in your field and have an excellent grasp of the materials and methods used for handcrafted designs.

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Starting A Youtube Channel For The Architecture Industry

YouTube is a great platform for you to showcase your work and reach out to potential customers. Starting a Youtube channel for the architecture industry can be an effective way to promote one’s business and gain exposure.

Here are some fun and profitable ideas for architects to consider when starting a YouTube channel:

42. Creating videos about architecture and interior design

You can make videos related to architecture and interior design in order to show off your work and share your expertise with others.

These videos can be educational, entertaining, or a combination of both. You can feature interviews with industry professionals, tutorials on how to use certain materials or techniques, or simply provide an overview of different architectural styles.

This could be a great avenue for monetizing your YouTube channel, as many architecture students find it helpful to watch such videos.

43. Offering tutorials on drafting techniques or 3D modelling

You can also offer tutorials on drafting techniques or 3D modelling to help others learn the basics of architecture. These tutorials can be offered in a variety of formats, such as video lessons, written guides, or even live webinars.

This type of content is especially useful for those who are just starting out in the field and need guidance on how to use certain tools and software.

Through providing tutorials, you can support others in gaining an understanding of the basics and becoming more adept at your craft.

44. Producing tutorials on how to use architectural software

As an architect, you can also produce tutorials that teach how to use software products such as AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp.

These instructional videos are beneficial to students and professionals who wish to become familiar with the fundamentals of these programs and refine their skills in using them.

These tutorials can also be used to demonstrate the capabilities of certain software packages and show potential customers what they are capable of creating with them.

By providing this type of content, software architects like you can help others gain a better understanding of the tools available to them and how they can be used to create amazing designs.

45. Interviewing architects and designers to share their stories

Gaining insight into the architecture and design industry can be greatly beneficial by interviewing experienced professionals who are willing to share their wealth of knowledge and expertise.

Your capability of listening allows you to learn from their stories and gain a better understanding of the industry.

Through conversations with architects and designers, viewers can gain insight into the creative process of certain projects, as well as discover the challenges faced in turning their visions into reality. Having interviews with business analysts and other industry professionals can also provide valuable advice on how to succeed in the field.

These interviews can be used to create a series of videos that offer an in-depth look into the world of architecture and design.

These can also provide inspiration for viewers who are looking to pursue a career in business architecture or design.

Have covered all the various different business ideas for architects, you might still have some questions after reviewing our list.

Let's look into the commonly asked questions related to establishing a side business for architects.

45 Creative And Profitable Side Businesses For Architects (13)

Frequently Asked Questions

What ideas should I consider if I want to make money on the side as an architect?

If you’re looking to make money on the side as an architect, there are a variety of ideas to consider.

You could offer architectural services such as drafting, 3D modelling, or design consultation. You could also create tutorials on how to use various software packages or interview experienced professionals and share their stories.

You might also consider starting a YouTube channel or blog and monetizing your content.

What are the best ways to market my side business as an architect?

Creating content that engages potential customers is one business model you can use to market your side business as an architect.

This could include tutorials on how to use various software packages, interviews with experienced professionals, or blog posts about the latest trends in architecture and design. Your current business strategies should also be adapted to include digital marketing tactics such as SEO and email campaigns.

You should also consider networking with other architects and designers in your area to increase your visibility, along with considering to leverage social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to promote your content and services. Furthermore, at the strategic level, you could create a website or portfolio to showcase your work.

Does it make sense for me to start a blog or website as an architect-based business?

It is a sound decision for an architect-based business to start a blog or website.

Having a website or blog is a great way to showcase your work and attract potential customers. You can use the platform to share tutorials, interviews with experienced professionals, relevant issues and other content related to architecture and design.

You may also use your blog or website as an outlet to market your services and reach out to potential customers. Business feedback and reviews can also be posted on the website, which will help to build trust and credibility.

Finally, having a blog or website is a great way to network with other architects and designers in your area. Bridges between business and customer can be built through this platform.

Are there any measurement techniques that can be used to evaluate the success of your side business as an architect?

For evaluating the success of your freelance architecture business, there are several metrics that you can use.

Not tracking customer feedback and reviews when assessing customer satisfaction is a waste of time. As a business architect, you should pay attention to the leads generated from your website or blog, as well as measure the number of conversions resulting from these leads.

Tactical measurements such as website traffic, time on page, and bounce rate can also be used to evaluate the success of your side business. You should also track the number of followers you have on social media platforms, as well as the engagement rate of your posts. Finally, you should measure the amount of revenue generated by your side business.

By tracking these metrics, you can gain valuable insights into how successful your side business is and make adjustments accordingly.

What skills do I need to become an entrepreneurial architect and run my own successful side business?

To become an entrepreneurial architect and run a successful side business, you will need to have a variety of skills.

First and foremost, you should have a strong understanding of the fundamentals of architecture and design. You should also be familiar with various software packages used in the industry, such as AutoCAD or Revit.

In addition, you will need to possess excellent communication and marketing skills in order to effectively promote your services and attract potential customers.

You should also have a good understanding of business architecture models and business principles, such as budgeting, pricing, and customer service. Finally, you should be comfortable with business risks and make decisions independently.

Your business capabilities, current business strategies, and skills will be essential for running a successful side business as an architect. Having a business impact-focused mindset and the ability to think strategically will also be beneficial.

Finally, customer-driven business architects should be able to identify customer needs and develop solutions that meet those needs.

45 Creative And Profitable Side Businesses For Architects (14)

Conclusion

There are several side businesses for architects that you can try. I hope you are able to learn some of those from the list of business ideas we have compiled above.

Architects with entrepreneurial aspirations have ample opportunity to create lucrative business systems suited to their skill set and interests using their knowledge and experience in architectural design, construction management, engineering, software solutions, sustainability, and more!

With various technological advancements readily accessible at our fingertips today, starting a part-time or full-time architecture-based side hustle is easier than ever before!

By considering all of your options in terms of ideas that relate to your specific area of expertise, thinking outside of the box for new solutions combined with the specialised training, business requirements, and certifications needed, and leveraging your existing network, you’re well on your way towards creating a new enterprise that can net you extra income while doing what you love most!

If this article was helpful to you, please share it with your friends and colleagues who are architects. Let us know what you think in the comments section; your thoughts are appreciated.

OCCO London is dedicated to aiding creative entrepreneurs like you with starting and advancing their life and businesses.

45 Creative And Profitable Side Businesses For Architects (2024)
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