Abstract :

 Entering a highly dynamic and competitive future, architectural services are no longer confined to designing spaces or planning buildings. Architects possess multidisciplinary skills that can extend into strategic roles—particularly in supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and communities that increasingly require design-informed solutions to stay competitive in a rapidly shifting market. However, many architects are unaware of how to reposition or promote their extended capabilities beyond conventional design, often lacking insight into the market segments that would benefit most from these services. To address this gap, this study applies a Design Thinking methodology—centered on empathy to explore how architects can innovate their service offerings to better align with the needs of SMEs. By collecting qualitative data through semi-structured interviews with SME business owners in fashion and food-related sectors, the study identifies pain points, unmet visual and spatial needs, and opportunities for collaboration. Additionally, business model innovation is used to reframe the architect’s role from a traditional service provider to a strategic design consultant. Findings reveal that while SMEs seek impactful and functional spatial design, they rarely consider architects as partners in solving such challenges. This study contributes a strategic framework for repositioning architectural services as user-driven, business-enhancing solutions—opening new pathways for architects within the creative economy.

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Keywords :

Architectural Services, Business model innovation, Creative Economy, Design Thinking, SMEs

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