11/07/2026
Newbie architects against established firms and multinational practices is like comparing apples to oranges. The vast differences in experience, technical capability, organizational resources, project complexity, and professional liability are just some of the realities that need pondering.
A one-size-fits-all approach to professional fees, like the AIA Documents undermines the value that established firms have built over decades of practice. Professional compensation should reflect competence, experience, scope of work, and the risks assumed—not merely the status of being a licensed architect. Equating newly licensed practitioners with seasoned firms creates an unrealistic standard that neither promotes fairness nor recognizes excellence in the profession.
