Why Google Business Profile matters for Architects
Extension and loft conversion planning is the biggest domestic architecture search market. Homeowners who've decided to extend search for an architect to manage the planning application and design. Your portfolio photos are the primary selection tool at this stage, show the style and scale of extensions you design.
New build private clients are a smaller but higher-value market. These clients research architects extensively. Your GBP profile is part of that research, it needs to show completed new builds, client testimonials, and a description that communicates design philosophy.
Planning application success rate is something clients ask about. Without claiming specific numbers, your description and reviews should convey that you understand local planning requirements and have a strong record.
Local Markers helps architects build a portfolio-driven profile with appropriate photos of completed projects, structure services to cover design, planning, and contract administration, and capture reviews that describe the process experience and outcome.
The right GBP categories for Architects
Choosing the right categories is one of the biggest ranking factors for Google Maps. Here's what we recommend.
Stick to 3-4 secondary categories. More than that can dilute your relevance signal.
Photo strategy for Architects
The right photos build trust before customers even call. Here's what to upload to your GBP.
Completed house extension, external photograph in good light showing the design quality and integration with the existing building.
Loft conversion with feature window, a well-designed dormer or mansard showing architectural consideration.
New build exterior, a completed private house showing the full design.
Detailed interior, a well-designed open plan space or kitchen extension interior.
Planning drawing rendered, a perspective or elevation drawing showing the design quality.
ARB registration certificate, confirms your credentials directly on the profile.
Getting reviews as an architect
Reviews are the second biggest ranking factor for Google Maps. Here's how to build a consistent stream.
After planning permission granted: 'Planning approved, great outcome. A Google review describing the planning process and our communication would really help homeowners planning similar work, here's the link: [link]'
After project completion: 'Really pleased with how the [project type] has come out. A detailed review describing the design process would help other homeowners find a good architect, here's the link: [link]'
After consultation: 'Really useful consultation. Even a brief review describing what we covered would help homeowners considering the same type of project: [link]'
Common GBP mistakes Architects make
We see these on almost every profile we audit.
Not displaying ARB registration in the description, this is the basic legal requirement customers check for.
Portfolio photos too small or low quality to convey design quality.
Not listing specific project types as services, extension, loft conversion, new build, and conversion are all searched independently.
Not describing your design process or communication approach in the description, these are decision factors for many clients.
Not collecting reviews at planning approval stage when client satisfaction peaks.
Not adding 'Interior designer' as a secondary category if you take on interior design alongside architecture.
Quick wins you can do yourself
Steps you can take right now to improve your listing.
Primary category 'Architect'. Add 'Structural engineer', 'Interior designer' as secondary.
Services: house extension design, loft conversion, new build, planning application, permitted development, building regulations, conservation area application.
Description: 200 words. ARB registration number, design approach, planning record, project types, areas covered.
Upload 10 portfolio photos, exterior and interior of completed projects.
Ask for reviews at planning approval and project completion.
Respond to all reviews promptly.