There Are No Small Jobs in Architecture

Here’s something I think about a lot when bidding on new jobs and discussing scope with clients. Simply put, there are no small jobs in architecture. The idea of a ‘small job’ could be a challenge.

In architecture, size is an illusion. Some projects may appear modest on paper—a kitchen renovation, a single-family home addition, or a tenant fit-out—but any architect or designer will tell you that the complexity of a project isn’t measured in square footage. Every project, regardless of scale, demands attention to detail, coordination, and problem-solving.

The Myth of the “Small” Project

At first glance, a small project might seem straightforward. A client needs a kitchen remodel, a new staircase, or a façade upgrade—just a few drawings, right? Not quite. Even the simplest modifications must navigate building codes, zoning regulations, structural constraints, and client expectations. And in many cases, these “small” projects take just as much effort as their larger counterparts, if not more.

Unlike large-scale commercial projects, where roles and responsibilities are often divided among a team, smaller projects often require the architect to wear multiple hats. You may find yourself acting as a designer, project manager, permit expediter, and construction administrator all at once. There’s also the challenge of working within an existing structure, where surprises—hidden plumbing, structural deficiencies, outdated wiring—can quickly complicate even the most straightforward design.

Managing Constraints and Expectations

One of the biggest challenges of smaller projects is managing constraints. A tight budget, an existing footprint, or limited structural flexibility means every design decision must be intentional. There’s no room for waste—of space, money, or time.

Clients often assume that smaller projects mean shorter timelines, fewer complications, and less oversight. But as anyone who’s worked in residential renovations or adaptive reuse knows, that’s rarely the case. A bathroom renovation might seem simple, but once you start peeling back layers of drywall, you might find outdated plumbing or non-compliant electrical work that must be brought up to code. The process is often like surgery—careful, precise, and requiring a deep understanding of the structure you’re working with.

Thoughtful Design at Every Scale

The best architects know that great design is not reserved for grand gestures or large budgets. Thoughtful, well-executed design can transform even the smallest spaces, making them more functional, efficient, and beautiful.

In fact, small projects often present opportunities for creative problem-solving. How do you make a compact kitchen feel spacious? How do you bring in natural light without adding new openings? How do you work within strict zoning setbacks? These are the kinds of challenges that sharpen an architect’s skill set.

No Project Is Too Small to Matter

Ultimately, there is no such thing as a “small” project. Every space we design has an impact—on the people who use it, on the community it serves, and on the built environment as a whole. Whether you’re designing a skyscraper or reconfiguring a single room, the same principles apply: clarity, precision, and a deep understanding of how people interact with space.

For architects, every project is an opportunity to solve problems, improve lives, and make the world just a little better—one detail at a time.