Architect in Switzerland – services, fees, and how to find the right professional

An architect doesn't just draw up plans. Good architecture influences how a house feels, how efficiently it can be heated, how smoothly a renovation goes—and how well the property holds its value or even increases in value over the long term. That's why many builders in Switzerland bring an architect on board at an early stage: for new construction, renovation, an extension, or even just for an initial assessment of whether a project is realistic at all. At the same time, the same question almost always arises: what specific tasks does an architect take on – and how much does it cost? Fees vary greatly depending on the project, region, and scope of services. This guide provides clear information on typical services, common billing models, realistic price ranges, and how to decide whether you are better off with an architect, construction manager, or a general contractor/total contractor.

An architect is the common thread in many projects: they bring your requirements (budget, style, use, deadlines) together with what is technically, legally, and structurally possible. This is not just about design, but also about function, building physics, energy standards, cost control, and coordination.

Typical core tasks are:

Clarify needs and define goals At the outset, "We want more space" or "We want to renovate" becomes a clear program: How many rooms? What uses? What are the priorities in terms of comfort, energy, materials? This phase often determines whether the project will run smoothly later on or require constant readjustment.

Create a design and plan Based on the objectives, the architect develops different options: floor plans, volumes, room layouts, lighting, material ideas. They check whether the project fits within the structural framework (e.g., zoning regulations, distances, heights, utilization) and whether the budget remains realistic.

Support with building applications and administrative processes In order for a building application to be approved in Switzerland, the documentation must be complete. Architects prepare plans, building specifications, and supporting documents, coordinate clarifications, and respond to queries from the municipality or cantonal authorities.

Specialist planners and contractors coordinate Many projects involve structural engineers, building services engineers (heating/ventilation/plumbing), electricians, energy consultants, or specialist trades. The architect ensures that these disciplines work together—so that, for example, pipes do not collide with beams or details in the construction do not have to be resolved expensively "in the field."

Managing and supervising construction If the architect also takes on the role of construction manager, they monitor deadlines, quality, costs, safety, and execution. They document the progress of construction, check invoices, organize inspections, and ensure that defects are systematically recorded and rectified.

In short: an architect is often the person who translates ideas into an approvable, buildable, and controllable project—while representing your interests to all parties involved.

Architect fees depend less on the "name" than on the scope of the project: a new building is easier to plan, while a renovation can involve more risks and additional work. In Switzerland, many firms base their fees on SIA 102 ( fee schedule) – often supplemented by flat rates or hourly rates, depending on which phases you commission.

Fee as a percentage of construction costs (often based on SIA logic) Very common for projects involving multiple service phases. The more complex the project, the higher the rate may be.

Flat rates for clearly definedsub-contracts For example: feasibility studies, preliminary projects, building applications, or detailed planning for a single element. This can be very transparent for smaller projects—if the scope of services is clearly defined.

Hourly rates for consulting and additionalservices Typical for one-off support, variant studies, or when the assignment is constantly changing. Guideline values: often CHF 120–180 per hour, sometimes more for very experienced specialists.

New single-family home (construction cost approx. $1,000,000–$1,500,000) Typical fee: approx. $100,000–$200,000 (depending on scope of services and complexity)

Renovation project 100–150m² Depending on the extent of the work (e.g., load-bearing walls, building services, insulation): approx. $40,000–$100,000

Smaller projects (bathroom, kitchen, interior renovation, partial planning) Planning, submission/coordination depending on scope: approx. $6,000–$15,000

Important: These figures are guidelines. Quotes can vary significantly, especially if construction management, tendering, or cost control are included to varying degrees.

Architectural services can be roughly divided into phases. You don't necessarily have to commission everything—many builders deliberately choose individual components.

This involves examining what is actually possible on a plot of land or in existing buildings: building regulations, zoning regulations, approximate costs, risks, options. Ideally, this should be done before you commit yourself or purchase a plot of land. Cost: approx. $2,500–5,000

Floor plans, variants, room concept, initial material ideas, and a rough cost estimate. Often the most important part, because this is where the big decisions are made. Budget: often approx. 3–10% of the construction cost (depending on depth/number of variants)

Preparation of submission plans and necessary documentation (building specifications, supporting documents, coordination with authorities). Cost framework: approx. 2–5% of the construction sum

Contractors are contacted, quotes are compared, questions regarding quality and deadlines are clarified, and recommendations for awarding contracts are made. Cost framework: approx. 2–5% of the construction sum

Detailed plans and specifications for tradespeople: dimensions, connections, details, material definitions. This phase prevents costly construction errors. Budget: approx. 2–5% of the construction cost

Coordination on the construction site, quality control, protocols, invoice verification, approvals, response to problems. Cost framework: approx. 3–7% of the construction sum

Defect lists, rectifications, final acceptance, and documentation for operation/maintenance. Cost framework: approx. 1–2% of the construction sum

Defect lists, rectifications, final acceptance, and documentation for operation/maintenance. Cost framework: approx. 1–2% of the construction sum

A precise preliminary project saves the most money later on. The more clearly the objectives, scope, and budget are defined at the outset, the less "replanning" is required—and in practice, this is a frequent cost driver.

Limit the options Three kitchen layouts, five facade options, constantly new material ideas: each additional round costs planning time and delays the tender and construction.

Standardize where it makes sense Custom-made products and special details are expensive. Standard dimensions, proven systems, and repeatable solutions save time and reduce errors.

Involve architects early on instead of trying to salvage the project late in the game. Identifying conflicts early on (building regulations, structural engineering, building services) prevents costly detours and delays.

Make offers comparable The same applies to architects as to tradespeople: a price comparison is only fair if the scope of services, project phases, and depth are defined in the same way.

Make targeted use of your own resources Demolition, simple dismantling, painting, or clearing out can be worthwhile—but only if it is realistic and does not cause any interface problems.

New construction, renovation, or refurbishment—almost every construction project becomes easier when planning, approval, coordination, and quality assurance are handled professionally. A good architect helps you structure decisions, make costs transparent, and identify risks early on. This significantly reduces the likelihood of costly mistakes, delays, and quality issues.