Architecture firms across France are facing unprecedented challenges as the construction market experiences a significant slowdown. To address these mounting difficulties, industry experts have compiled a comprehensive set of recommendations designed to help architectural practices preserve their operations and protect their employees during these turbulent times.
The National Council of the Order of Architects (Cnoa) recently organized a webinar in July 2025 specifically focused on helping architecture agencies stay afloat during the current economic downturn. According to Frédéric Poulat, national advisor for Cnoa, managing architectural agencies in these "tense and uncertain times requires courage, endurance, and sometimes sacrifice." The organization has identified key strategies that firms can implement to maintain their activity and weather the storm.
The first critical step involves asking the right questions about financial management and business operations. Yann Gilbert, a certified public accountant specializing in architecture firms at Extensys and consultant to the Regional Council of the Order of Architects of Île-de-France, emphasizes the importance of anticipating crises before they occur. He recommends that firm owners conduct thorough self-assessments of their financial position by asking fundamental questions about their cash flow management.
Gilbert suggests that architecture firm owners should regularly evaluate whether they are authorized to operate with overdrafts, whether they have emergency plans ready for periods of reduced activity, and whether their billing methods align with their workflow patterns. Additionally, firms should critically examine whether they need to reconsider their market segment or diversify their client base to ensure long-term sustainability.
Diversification of projects emerges as another crucial strategy for maintaining stability during economic uncertainty. Rather than relying on a single type of architectural project or client base, successful firms are encouraged to expand their service offerings and explore different market segments. This approach helps create multiple revenue streams and reduces dependence on any single sector that might be particularly affected by economic downturns.
Collective support within the architectural community represents another vital component of survival strategies. The webinar highlighted how firms can benefit from sharing resources, knowledge, and even collaborating on larger projects that individual agencies might not be able to handle alone. This collaborative approach not only helps distribute risk but also allows smaller firms to compete for larger contracts by pooling their expertise and resources.
The experts also stressed the importance of maintaining strong relationships with existing clients while actively seeking new opportunities. This dual approach involves ensuring current projects are completed to the highest standards to maintain reputation and client satisfaction, while simultaneously networking and marketing to attract new business. Firms that successfully balance these priorities are more likely to emerge from economic challenges in stronger positions.
As the architecture industry continues to face these economic headwinds, the implementation of these expert recommendations could prove crucial for firms seeking to maintain their operations and protect their workforce. The strategies outlined by industry specialists provide concrete pathways for architectural practices to navigate the current challenging landscape while positioning themselves for future growth and stability.
