Architects and designers innovate with every project, experimenting with materials, modeling energy performance, or solving unique structural and aesthetic challenges. Yet many don’t realize these activities qualify for the R&D tax credit. This blog explains how architectural and design firms can identify qualifying work, what expenses to include, and how to claim the credit with confidence.
Modern architecture is defined by creative problem-solving grounded in technical precision. Every design phase, from concept sketches to material testing, involves eliminating uncertainty and refining performance.
Architecture and design firms routinely:
All of these activities fall within the IRS framework for qualified research activities (QRAs).
The IRS uses four criteria to determine if work qualifies as R&D:
Most architectural and design work checks all four boxes, especially when projects involve new performance standards, materials, or environmental goals.
If your team tests, models, or prototypes before finalizing a design, you’re likely performing qualifying R&D activities.
Architecture and design firms can include several categories of expenses in their R&D claim:
Each expense must link to qualifying research activities, but specialists like B10 Capital help firms track this efficiently without interrupting workflow.
Architectural firms often assume they don’t have “R&D paperwork,” but most already keep what’s needed:
Architecture and design firms typically qualify for credits ranging from $50,000 to several hundred thousand dollars annually, depending on project size and scope.
Key benefits include:
Many CPAs assume architecture is “creative,” not “technical.” But the IRS recognizes architecture as a technical discipline grounded in physics, math, and engineering principles.
Without industry insight, traditional advisors often:
That’s why partnering with a specialist who understands architectural workflows leads to larger, more accurate, and fully compliant claims.
Some states offer R&D incentives that align with the federal credit.
For architectural and design firms operating across multiple states, these can be claimed in tandem for additional savings.
B10 Capital monitors and manages both federal and state-level credits to ensure firms receive the maximum benefit available.
We specialize in helping design professionals turn innovation into value, offering:
Our goal: make the R&D process simple, secure, and profitable, so you can focus on designing, not deciphering tax code.
Architecture and design are inherently experimental disciplines. Every tested material, simulated model, and reimagined space reflects research and development in action.
By identifying qualifying activities, maintaining straightforward documentation, and working with the right specialists, architectural firms can turn innovation into tangible financial return through the R&D tax credit.
If your firm models, tests, or engineers new building concepts, you’re likely already conducting qualifying R&D. Don’t let those efforts go unrewarded.
Contact B10 Capital today to explore R&D tax credit opportunities for architecture and design firms. Our team will help you capture every eligible dollar, federally and at the state level, while ensuring total compliance.
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