Minimum rates for architectural projects in Poland - what do architects think about them? Are they needed, how should they be charged, and how much could they be? We asked representatives of studios, both small, medium and large, developers and lecturers. One of those who shared their opinion is Robert Konieczny. What does the founder of KWK Promes studio think about the minimum rates for architects?
The dire situation of architectural offices in Poland is a fact. In the worst position are medium and small studios, whose profitability and profitability are often on the verge of survival. At the same time, investments, especially from the residential sector, are increasing, which means there is something to design. In January 2025, more apartments were completed than a year ago, also the number of those whose construction has begun is higher (CSO data). However, the average quality of what is being built is not satisfactory. It is being built quickly, most often at a low cost, but at a record high profit. So why are architects one of the lowest-paid links in the industry?
When we discussed at this year's Budma what the quality of residential architecture in Poland depends on, the topic of architects' salaries dominated the debate. Mateusz Mastalski, a partner at the Danish studio Henning Larsen, who was present at the meeting, pointed out that in Denmark quality is due not only to tradition, good architectural education of the society or professional solidarity of architects, but also to the fact that they have more time for designing than in Poland and are better paid for their work. This correlation seems obvious.
So we are starting a debate on architects' salaries in Poland. We will continue it in future issues of A&B.
Robert KONIECZNY - Creator of the architectural studio KWK Promes. Foreign member of the French Academy of Architecture since 2017, honorary member of the Association of Architects of the Czech Republic since 2022. Twelve times nominated for the Mies van der Rohe Prize, winner of numerous architectural awards.
Should there be a guaranteed minimum rate per square meter of a project? Please briefly justify your answer.
Yes, the introduction of a guaranteed minimum rate is necessary, and the only effective solution is appropriate legislation. In many countries where we work, the application of minimum rates is the norm and a universally respected principle. Unfortunately, in Poland the situation is dramatic - the rates are embarrassingly low, and conceptual projects are often done for free, which leads to the degradation of our profession. A guaranteed rate not only stabilizes the market, but also affects the quality of architecture. If our environment cannot act in solidarity, as is the case in other countries, appropriate legislation is necessary.
How much should be the minimum rate without industry professionals per square meter for multifamily residential architecture?
The optimal solution would be to adopt the model used abroad, that is, to set the remuneration as a percentage of the value of the investment. Usually it's about 10 percent, and it also includes the tradesmen, so it can be assumed that the share of architecture alone should be 7-8 percent.
How much should the minimum rate without tradesmen be per square meter for single-family houses?
See the answer to the question about the rate per square meter of multifamily residential architecture.
How much should the minimum rate without tradesmen be per square meter for office buildings?
See the answer to the question about the rate per square meter of multifamily residential architecture.
How much should the minimum rate without industry professionals be per square meter for public buildings and spaces?
See the answer to the question about the rate per square meter of multifamily residential architecture.
If the minimum rate should not be guaranteed, how to work out favorable wages for architects?
As I mentioned, without appropriate legal regulations, I do not see how to effectively work out fair salaries. I do not believe in the common sense of our environment.
Should architects as a professional group have trade unions to deal only with the issue of architects' salaries?
Yes, we should have trade unions and effective lobbyists to represent our interests, not only on the issue of salaries.
Robert Konieczny
KWK Promes
more: A&B 4/2025 - RE-USE + architects' rates,
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