Successful architectural and planning firms understand their website is a foundational marketing tool. But it's not enough to simply build a site and hope for the best. Effective websites require strategic planning and thoughtful content.
Our survey of over 250 firms revealed that 75% struggle with maximizing their web presence to attract potential clients. While you're focused on transforming skylines, we can help ensure your website generates as much interest as your designs.
A well-structured website with high-quality content can:
- Showcase your expertise and architectural chops.
- Communicate the value your firm can deliver to clients.
- Increase visibility through search engines (SEO).
- Generate leads and drive client inquiries.
The following sections, we'll discuss how a targeted website strategy can elevate your firm's brand and bring in new business.
If there’s one thing you should invest your limited architect-marketing budget in, make it your website, which is a major component of your brand. - Taz Khatri / AutoDesk
Your Architectural Portfolio is an SEO Magnet
A website and more specifically your portfolio page is like an architectural exhibit that never closes. You can flaunt your most breathtaking designs, share the stories behind each project, and create a visually stunning portfolio that speaks louder than any brochure ever could.
A well structured portfolio can also signal the professionalism that your company needs. It provides a level of authority as a firm without any words being exchanged. Let's take two examples below:
Architect Portfolio #1: Why is the format below better you ask? The portfolio has a thoughtful layout, supporting text, and an explanation of the project goals. As well as:
- It's SEO friendly because we've added keywords to the project that could potentially answer user searches
- User experience is fantastic with relevant details about the specific project to go with great visuals
- Clear navigation pattern to help the user
Architect Portfolio #2: Why doesn't the format work in the second example below? The portfolio feels like a dumping ground for project photos, lacks details and no clear way to navigate in and out of the gallery.
- Great visuals but lacks any SEO related information to rank on Search Engines
- Gallery format is mediocre at best, completely unrelated projects showing up in the same gallery
- No context for the user visiting the site
When a potential client is on the hunt for the perfect architect, what do they do first? Yep, you guessed it - they Google. Too often, I see architect online portfolios with no titles, alt text or explanation. A well design website should allow you to add details about your work, search engines love details and words.
A well designed portfolio can enhance your credibility but also acts as a visual feast for those who appreciate the artistry in your creations. Don't let your designs remain hidden in a dusty old portfolio; let them shine in the digital spotlight!
Trust is the cornerstone of any company
Here's a scenario: A client is torn between a few architect firms, trying to decide who will turn their dream home or extension into reality. They stumble upon your website, and what do they find? A sleek, user-friendly interface that reflects the professionalism and attention to detail that you bring to your projects.
A good website is like the welcoming handshake in person. It not only showcases your architectural prowess but also tells your firm's story. Share your journey, your values, and the unique approach that sets your firm apart. Clients want to connect with the people behind the work, and a website is a great platform to let your firm's personality shine through.
Oh, and let's not forget the power of client testimonials. Feature the success stories of happy clients who've seen their visions come to life with your expertise. It's not just a website; it's a trust-building machine.
Expand your reach and attract new opportunities
We are more interconnected than ever, don't limit your firm to local projects. A well-designed website opens up a global playground for your architectural talents. Whether it's a developer looking for a groundbreaking design or an international client seeking a unique perspective, your website becomes the gateway to new opportunities.
Search Engine Optimization, might sound like tech jargon, but it's the magic wand that can elevate your website's visibility. Great website design and a well thought out content strategy can make up a large part of your website's success.
If your architect firm is looking for a win with more online traffic that you can convert to clients, then it's time to take SEO seriously. After auditing thousands of architecture websites, I can assure you that a majority of architect sites do not leverage their websites like they should, let alone SEO.
Imagine being the first name that pops up when someone types "innovative sustainable architects" into Google. A well-optimized website not only attracts potential clients but also positions your firm as an industry leader. It's not about being the best-kept secret; it's about being the go-to choice.
Search Engines Also Love Great Design
When it comes to web traffic, valuable content + good design + great user experience is what Google looks for. It can be the difference between showing up on the front page of the world's most powerful search engines. Good website design invites users to stay on your site while they read your amazing content. Both of those combined makes up for the user experience that Google and other search engines are looking for:
- Length of stay on your site: People that click off your website is a signal to the Search Engine that there's something wrong. The longer people stay on your site is a signal of the quality of their visit. People don't stick around when the user experience is bad.
- Loading speed: Websites that take a long time to load get penalized by search engines. The average attention span of the current user is so short that long wait times can be the difference between leaving your site or grabbing their attention right away.
- Quality of content: Once a potential client is on your site, the quality of your content makes a huge difference. Poor layouts & hard to read text are the most common website mistakes I see. Some architect sites have small fonts, gray on white or just straight up errors all over the place. This does nothing for your site's credibility or your company and certainly will not be recommended by search engines.
After all, why would a subpar user experience be recommended by Google? They have a reputation to protect, if they recommend crap content and terrible user experience, people will eventually trust their results less and less. A good designer & optimized code can elevate your site to the top of the rankings, when done correctly. Just remember, your website is for your clients, not for you.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're building a website yourself or looking for the perfect web agency to craft your digital plot, remember this: A well-designed website isn't just a luxury; it's a strategic necessity. It's your online storefront, your virtual handshake, and your passport to a world of opportunities. Don't just build structures; build your digital legacy the same way you'd design a building to stand the test of time.
If you've made this far, I can only assume you're convinced that good web design matters. We are website designers for architects, let's chat about creating a website that mirrors the brilliance of your company.
