Client Collaboration in Architecture

Here's an alternative approach to know what your client wants as an architect.

Many architects know that it's important to talk to clients, understand what they want, and create something that matches their expectations. However, this doesn't always result in the best designs.

Clients might not have the time or interest to get into the details of design. Sometimes, they just like a family member's house and want something similar. This is often because they look up to that family member and think that having a similar house will bring them the same respect and admiration.

As an architect, it's important to be understanding and flexible. Instead of asking clients what they want directly, show them 20 different pictures and ask them to pick the ones they like. Make sure these pictures match your design philosophy and key architectural principles.

Focus on the designs they choose and learn more about why they like them.

This way, clients feel involved in the process, and you still get to maintain good design taste and quality.

By showing clients different architectural options, you help them see possibilities beyond the few houses they've seen. 

This way, the resulting house (or any other project) becomes a complete architectural piece, because you strategically made your clients choose from other architectural marvels rather than random buildings. 
It's a win-win. 

You get to satisfy your architectural taste buds, and they get something truly good.