Architecture and interior design firms are service businesses, but project billing and reimbursable client costs can make their bookkeeping more detailed than a typical consulting practice. A clear workflow helps management understand both the firm and individual projects.
Separate professional fees from reimbursable costs
Travel, samples, printing, permits, consultants, and other project-related costs may be reimbursed by clients. The bookkeeping process should make it clear which costs belong to the firm and which are expected to be recovered.
Use project tracking intentionally
Owners may want to compare fees, direct costs, and labor by project. The accounting system should capture the level of detail the firm actually uses for decisions.
Monitor retainers and client deposits
Payments received before work is completed may require different accounting treatment from earned revenue. The bookkeeper should follow the firm’s accounting method and coordinate with the tax professional when needed.
Keep contractor and consultant costs organized
Engineers, renderers, designers, draftspeople, and other outside professionals can be significant direct project costs. Consistent vendor coding helps project reporting and year-end review.
Reconcile before reviewing project profitability
Project reports are only as reliable as the underlying books. Bank, card, receivable, payable, and other relevant accounts should be reconciled before management relies on the numbers.
Ask what the monthly package includes
Confirm whether the quote includes project tracking, reimbursable-expense review, invoicing support, accounts payable, contractor reporting, and management reporting. These services can materially change the scope.
Tell MatchBookkeeper how you bill clients and what project reporting you need.