A friend spotted this and sent it to me. It is a copy of the Architect’s Code of Conduct, from the 1920’s. Back then, a copy of this code was given to every newly licensed architect in the Philippines. It is a beautiful thing, both aesthetically and philosophically.
if, like me, you need to squint to read this, here’s what it says:
The Architect’s Code
- I shall work with this general objective – that my duty is not only to myself but also to my fellowmen, my Country and God.
- I shall uphold the ideals and follow the norms of conduct of a proud profession and endlessly endeavor to further its ends.
- I shall humbly seek success not through the measure of solicited personal publicity but, by industrious application to my work, strive to merit a reputation for quality of service and for fair dealing.
- I shall ask from all fair remuneration for my services while expecting and asking no profits from any other source.
- I shall hold the interest of my Client over and above any self-interest for financial returns.
- I shall exercise my professional prerogatives always with impartiality and disinterestedness.
- I shall avoid any private business investments or ventures which may tend to influence my professional judgment to the detriment of the trust placed upon me.
- I shall inspire by my behaviour the loyalty of my associates and subordinates and take upon me the mentorship of the aspirants of the profession.
- I shall confine my criticisms and praises within constructive and inspirational limits and never resort to these means to further malicious motives.
- I dedicate myself to the pursuit of creative endeavor towards the goal of enlightened Art and Science, generously sharing with colleagues, friends, and strangers alike the benefits of my experience and experiments.
So be it.
The California Architect’s Code of Conduct is a legal statute, and though a worthy thing, is not worth framing and displaying in the office. I’d love a physical copy of this. These are words to live by.
by 
