The R&D Tax Credit

Architecture firms can attest that designing a building is not all about aesthetic design. However, the firms’ principals and officers may be unaware that the expenses associated with the development of unique functional and energy-efficient designs may allow them to take advantage of significant research and development (R&D) tax incentives. With the increase in sustainable and “green” designs incorporated into building features, architecture firms are expending more time and effort in the design phase of projects to achieve optimal energy-efficient and functional designs. If you think you have to be a manufacturer or software developer to be conducting qualified activities as defined by the Internal Revenue Code, think again.

If your firm is in the architecture industry, there is a strong chance that you could benefit from an R&D Tax Credit study. Speak to our engineering experts to help you understand if your activities qualify for the R&D credit.

Examples of activities and innovations eligible for R&D tax incentives include the following:

• Developing unique energy efficient features
• Designing master plans
• Developing schematic designs
• Developing planning and elevation drawings
• Designing a functional site plan to incorporate or overcome the site plan features
• Developing construction documents
• Designing and developing building facades
• Achieving LEED certification
• Designing building systems
• Designing site orientations
• Designing building shape and form