How can an architectural project cross borders? Without a doubt, this seems like a daring and complex feat, but it’s actually easier than it looks. If you have a good idea and a team that supports it, it doesn’t really matter in which country you want to work. This being said, you do need to know how to adapt to its needs and culture. Let us explain.
How to internationalize architecture
We’ve all seen how time and time again the world’s most famous architects have taken their ideas and constructions to any part of the globe. It’s natural when you’re in the A team and you’re already used to crossing borders. But what about architects who aren’t as openly renowned? Can they also carry out projects in other countries? The answer is clear: yes.
Now, to do so, you’re going to need some other resources that are a little different. Generally speaking, a world-renowned architect is contacted by the construction companies themselves, or even by public institutions. In this sense, offers are sent to them and they decide whether to take the project on or not. When it comes to lesser-known studios, however, it’s important to be proactive.
How to carry out an international architectural project
There are two main options:
- With a public bid. Sometimes, there are open bids. In general, criteria such as proximity, efficiency, among others come into play. However, this doesn’t mean you don’t stand a chance. Of course, you’ll have to work hard, but you can present a great project and win the contract.
- With private funding. You can get in touch with construction companies and businesspeople in the area to offer them a project. However, it has to be interesting and must fit with what they’re looking for or with their business outlooks. To achieve this, it’s a good idea not to send proposals blindly. Instead, you should thoroughly analyze the needs of the region in question, the business projects of its main brands, and how your work style can fit in.
Now, these are the ways to aim for a project of this caliber. But let’s a have a look at some other clear barriers you’ll have to overcome.
Main obstacles for your architectural project
Analyzing the difficulties you may face will help you tackle them from the very beginning.
1. Lack of knowledge
Perhaps you’ve got a great track record on a national scale. This, however, doesn’t always guarantee success internationally. This is why the best thing you can do is start building connections little by little with circles of interest in the region where you’d like to work. Go to conferences, network, travel, etc. This will also help you understand the landscape where you’ll be working. In this way, you can achieve your goals and you’ll find it easier to access new projects.
2. Competition
Of course, competition is increasing drastically. Many other architects who are aiming to expand internationally will also set their sights on these kinds of projects or jobs. Also, the number of architect studios you’ll be up against will rise. Therefore, first you need to analyze the competition. What do they have that you don’t? Can you add any value that sets you apart?
It’s important to understand this: whatever helps you get closer and interact better with people of interest will work in your favor throughout this process. This is what we’ll be looking at in the next point.
3. Language
Beyond your work, what can really make the difference between a “yes” and a “no” is how you interact with others. The way you communicate or the ease with which you can explain your project matters. Of course, you’re going to have to knock on a lot of doors and present lots of paperwork to endorse your project and the way you’re thinking of carrying it out. Keep in mind that, in the eyes of others, the way in which you communicate will reflect what your project will be like. Therefore, you have to choose your words carefully and perfectly adapt to the target language.
In this sense, it is crucial to be able to express yourself clearly and to offer a solid image. Ideally, you’d seek a native level of the language in question. In this way, when faced with paperwork, meetings or emails, you’ll be able to cope with no issues, there will be no conflicts or misunderstandings, and you’ll be able to earn the trust of your colleagues.
To conclude, carrying out an architectural project in another country is a particularly complex challenge. That’s why it’s important to have a team of expert translators in the industry who can help you communicate fluently and enter new markets. Here at Blarlo, we can offer you this as well as other services. Don’t wait any longer. Come on in!
This post is also available in: Español (Spanish) Français (French) Nederlands (Dutch) Deutsch (German)
