What is the purpose of client-architect meetings throughout a project?

The purpose of client-architect meetings throughout a project is to facilitate communication and clarify expectations. These meetings serve as a crucial touchpoint for ensuring that both the architect and the client are aligned on the project's goals, timelines, budget, and design preferences. Regular communication helps to build trust and rapport, allowing the architect to understand the client's vision and needs more effectively, while the client can voice any concerns or ask questions.

This ongoing dialogue is essential to address issues as they arise and to ensure that the project progresses smoothly, minimizing misunderstandings that could lead to costly delays or design changes later in the process. By establishing clear expectations during these meetings, both parties can work collaboratively to achieve a successful outcome.

Gathering design inspiration, negotiating fees, or avoiding changes to project plans, while related to the project process, do not encapsulate the primary purpose of these meetings. Instead, the focus should be on the open exchange of information and ideas—elements that are foundational to a successful client-architect relationship.