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How to Write an Architecture Project Proposal (+Examples)

Learn how to write an architectural project proposal with tips on format and structure. See examples and get templates to make your architecture proposal.

Author Dominika Krukowska

5 minute read

How to write an architecture project proposal

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Short answer

What is an architecture proposal?

An architecture proposal is a detailed document architects create to outline a project's vision, scope, timeline, and costs for their clients.

Its purpose is to build trust, set clear expectations, and highlight expertise—turning ideas into actionable plans that inspire confidence and win approval.

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What does an architecture proposal look like?

A modern architecture proposal is an interactive deck with embedded blueprints, 3D video walkthroughs, and interactive pricing options.

This dynamic format keeps clients engaged, simplifies complex ideas, and highlights professionalism and creativity in a way static documents just can’t match.


Here’s what an interactive architecture proposal looks like:

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How to write a proposal for an architectural project?

An effective architectural proposal puts the client’s needs front and center while clearly showcasing your expertise. It focuses on what makes your approach unique rather than overloading it with unnecessary details about yourself.


In this section, I’ll teach you how to create a proposal that wins trust, stands out from the competition, and secures the project.

What does an architecture proposal include?

  1. Title slide

  2. Cover letter

  3. Executive summary

  4. Project overview

  5. Proposed design solution

  6. Scope of work

  7. Timeline

  8. Pricing

  9. Team

  10. Past projects

  11. Terms and Conditions

  12. E-signature

  13. Contact slide

  14. Appendices slide

1) Title slide

The cover slide of your architectural proposal should grab attention and feel personal. Add your logo, the proposal title, and the recipient’s name and details—it shows you’re speaking directly to them.

Keep it clean and simple, but don’t shy away from a personal touch. If you want to stand out, consider adding a short video—maybe an intro from your team or a quick project teaser.

It’s a friendly way to make a connection right from the start.

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Architecture proposal title slide example

2) Cover letter

Don’t confuse the cover letter slide with a letter proposal.

A letter proposal is for when you’ve already been chosen for the job, and the client just needs a quick overview of your approach, qualifications, and fees—or when they want a high-level summary before diving into the details.

The cover letter slide is your chance to really connect. It’s a short, personal note that sets the tone for everything that follows.

Skip the boring corporate stuff and talk directly about their vision. Show your team’s excitement for solving their unique design challenge.

Make them feel like you’re already on the same team—not just another firm throwing their hat in the ring.

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Architecture proposal cover letter slide example

3) Executive summary

The executive summary is like an elevator pitch—a quick, impactful introduction to your firm and why you’re the best choice.

While some combine this with the cover letter, or only go for one or the other, I like to keep them separate. This way, the executive summary becomes a focused moment to stand out.

Don’t go overboard listing your qualifications—it’ll bore or alienate the client. Instead, frame your expertise around their needs, challenges, and goals. Show them how your unique approach directly benefits them.

Remember, they’re probably reading dozens of proposals, so make yours the one that sticks.

Use this space to be clear, relatable, and confident—leave no doubt in their minds that you’re the partner they’ve been looking for.

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Architecture proposal executive summary slide example

4) Project overview

The project overview is your opportunity to prove you’ve done more than skim the surface—you’ve dug deep and truly understand what the client needs.

Beyond the basics like site location, scope, and objectives, this section should show you’ve identified their challenges and the results they’re aiming for.

Highlight the specifics: what makes this project unique, what hurdles you anticipate, and how you’ll tackle them. Clients want to feel reassured that you’re already thinking ahead and have a plan to deliver.

When you lead with insight and clarity, you position yourself as the expert who not only gets the job but gets them.

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Architecture proposal project overview slide example

5) Proposed design solution

The proposed design solution is where you truly set yourself apart. Clients don’t just want a polished pitch—they want to see that you get their vision.

Start with their needs and priorities. For example, if sustainability is key, don’t offer vague commitments; show them a carbon journey map with detailed carbon calculations at every stage.

Instead of using generic project photos, consider including sketched design iterations with handwritten notes. It’s a great way to show your thought process and prove you’re already invested in their vision.

Bring in the project’s DNA by tying in local culture, site history, and their brand values to show how these elements shape your design decisions.

6) Scope of work

The scope of work section is the backbone of any architectural proposal. While the design solution slide is more about the what and why, this is more technical and practical and focuses on the how.

It explains how the project will be executed, breaking down the phases, tasks, and deliverables so the client knows exactly what to expect.

By defining what’s included (and what’s not), the scope of work sets boundaries, avoids misunderstandings, and keeps the project on track.

A well-thought-out scope of work is what turns ideas into action. It gives clients confidence that there’s a solid plan in place and reassures them that nothing important will slip through the cracks.

7) Timeline

Walk clients through how their project will take shape. A clear, no-fuss timeline builds trust and gives them peace of mind that everything will be done on time.

But let’s be real: even the best plans can hit roadblocks. That’s why a smart timeline doesn’t just chart milestones; it also accounts for potential risks.

Delays in design approvals, permit processing, supply chain hiccups, or unforeseen site challenges can throw a wrench into things.

To tackle this, include a risk diffusion strategy—like flexible sequencing or alternate material options—and a built-in buffer to absorb unexpected delays.

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Architecture proposal timeline slide example

8) Pricing

When presenting project costs, steer clear of lump sums—they’re too vague and leave clients guessing. Instead, break things down into phases like concept development, design refinement, documentation, and construction oversight.

For a more client-friendly touch, add expandable sections that clearly explain what’s included in each phase.

If possible, offer different pricing tiers or optional services. This adds flexibility, letting clients tailor the proposal to their priorities and budget.

Additionally, highlight factors that could affect the budget, like material choices, unexpected site challenges, or changes in scope.

By linking each line item to tangible project value, you transform a potentially overwhelming pricing slide into an easy-to-understand roadmap. You help clients see expenses as investments that directly translate to their project's success.

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Architecture proposal pricing slide example

9) Team

Introduce the people who will bring the project to life. Start by showcasing team members whose skills or experience align directly with the client’s needs.

Highlight past projects or specializations that make them the perfect fit—this helps build trust and confidence.

If someone worked on an especially interesting or relevant project before, don’t just list it—tell the story. Share how they tackled challenges or delivered standout results. It’s a great way to add personality and context.

Include photos and short bios for a personal touch, but keep the focus on professional achievements and what they’ll bring to this project. Clients also need clarity on roles, so spell out who’s responsible for what.

10) Past projects

The past projects section is your chance to wow clients, but let’s be honest—just listing projects or writing lengthy descriptions is a snoozefest. In a visual industry like architecture, you need to show rather than tell.

Organize your projects into clickable tabs so clients can easily find the ones that matter most to them. Each tab can open up detailed descriptions, photos, or videos that really bring the work to life.

Adding “before and after” sliders is another great touch—it’s a powerful way to show the transformations and make your impact stand out.

For your most stunning work, include 3D models or virtual walkthroughs, letting clients explore the space as if they were right there.

This section highlights your expertise while creating an immersive experience that leaves a lasting impression on your clients.

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Architecture proposal past projects slide example

11) Terms and Conditions

Setting clear terms and conditions is the foundation for a smooth and professional collaboration.

Start by outlining the payment structure—whether it’s upfront fees, milestone-based payments, or phased billing. Include due dates and accepted payment methods, and don’t forget to mention late fees or penalties.

Be upfront about any contingencies for delays caused by factors outside your control, like permit holdups or supply chain issues. Protect both sides by including clauses for sensitive client information or proprietary design details.

Define responsibilities clearly, especially when it comes to errors, omissions, or damages, and set reasonable liability limits. Other important clauses, like dispute resolution and termination conditions, ensure the project runs smoothly.

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Architecture proposal terms and conditions slide example

12) E-signature

Adding an e-signature to your proposal makes the agreement legally binding while cutting out the hassle of printing, signing, and scanning physical documents.

It speeds up the process, reduces back-and-forth, and keeps things simple for everyone involved.

Plus, it’s modern, professional, and shows you’re ready to get started without unnecessary delays.

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Architecture proposal e-signature slide example

13) Contact slide

You’d think people would have moved past this by now, but one mistake that keeps popping up is ending with a plain “Thank you” slide—or worse, no clear ending at all. It leaves clients wondering, “Cool, I finished reading… now what?”

Some might search for your contact details, but others will see it as a dealbreaker and move on to the next proposal.

Instead, make the next step crystal clear. If you’ve added an e-signature, use this slide to include contact details for follow-up questions or even embed a calendar link for scheduling.

If not, spell out exactly what you want them to do next—email you, book a meeting, or confirm the proposal. A strong, actionable ending makes it easy for clients to take the next step with confidence.

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Architecture proposal contact slide example

14) Appendices

The appendices slide is a lifesaver when it comes to covering more ground without overwhelming your proposal. This is the ideal place for all those valuable extras that don’t need to crowd the main deck.

Think detailed drawings, blueprints, material specs, team resumes, or case studies that highlight your best work. It’s also great for including permits, regulations, or sustainability metrics to show you’ve done your homework.

Got a risk management plan? Add it here—it’s a great way to reassure clients that you’ve thought of everything.

The beauty of an appendices slide is that it keeps your proposal sleek while giving clients easy access to the details they care about most. It’s practical, professional, and a subtle way to go above and beyond.

Architecture project proposal examples that sell your expertise

Now that you’ve got the hang of creating an architecture project proposal, let’s take a look at some examples that put these principles into action.

These examples follow best practices and offer plenty of inspiration to help you make an architecture proposal that stands out.

Architectural services proposal for design labs

The first thing that caught my eye was the three videos on the cover—such a clever way to grab attention right away.

I also love the tags like {{company}} that automatically pull in the right details when connected to your CRM. It makes personalization so quick and simple!

On top of that, the problem-solution framework is super straightforward, making it really easy to guide someone through your proposal without any confusion.

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Hotel architect project proposal

What stood out to me right away was the clear table of contents—it’s so easy to navigate. All the project details are laid out beautifully, from the goals and success metrics to the timeline and costs.

That said, it’s missing a couple of key things, like a project scope and a slide to showcase your vision. Let’s be real—no one’s going to greenlight a hotel project without seeing your work first. But honestly, that’s such a simple fix!

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Residential architectural proposal

What I really appreciate about this proposal is how it keeps things simple and to the point. It doesn’t overload you with details but still guides you through all the key points without feeling wordy or overwhelming.

Again, it could definitely use more visuals to showcase the proposed design solution—though those can easily be added from the library whenever needed.

It would also benefit from an appendices slide to organise extra documents, like permits, design sketches, cost breakdowns, and zoning approvals.

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Architectural proposal for a skyscraper

My favourite part of this proposal is the testimonials—they’re presented as stories that outline the problem, how it was solved, and the deliverables.

It’s such a smart way to show potential clients the type of work you’ve done and what you can bring to the table.

I also love the logo finder tool—it makes it so easy to swap out the placeholder logos next to the client quotes with your actual clients’ logos, adding a polished and personalized touch.

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Office building architectural design proposal

What really stands out in this proposal is the practical touch—a terms and conditions slide that doubles as a contract with the option for a legally binding e-signature.

Plus, the embedded calendar is such a time-saver, letting you book a meeting right on the spot.

However, for a design proposal, it feels a bit lacking in visual slides. A project like this deserves more eye-catching visuals to really bring the design to life and showcase the concept in detail, so you’d need to do some extra work and add those.

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Architectural project proposal templates

Putting together an architecture proposal that checks all the boxes but can still be tailored to each project is no easy task.

On top of that, there’s the challenge of making your deck stand out in an industry as competitive as architecture.

Interactive architecture proposal templates apply a tried-and-tested structure that you can easily personalize at scale in just a few clicks.

Just grab one.

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Dominika Krukowska

Hi, I'm Dominika, Content Specialist at Storydoc. As a creative professional with experience in fashion, I'm here to show you how to amplify your brand message through the power of storytelling and eye-catching visuals.

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What is an architecture proposal? What does an architecture proposal look like? How to write an architecture proposal? What to include in an architecture proposal? Architecture proposal examples Architecture proposal templates
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