Understanding Tariffs: How Architects Can Adapt to a Shifting Construction Landscape

The architecture and homebuilding industries are feeling the pressure as shifting global trade policies reshape the cost and availability of critical construction materials. From soaring prices on imported steel to volatile lumber tariffs, architects must now factor economic policy into their design process more than ever before. This article breaks down what’s happening and what it means for your next project.

Understanding the Current Tariff Landscape
In the past year, we’ve seen increasing volatility in trade policies that directly affect the construction industry. Key building materials—steel, aluminum, glass, and more—have been subject to tariff fluctuations. While some of these measures are meant to bolster domestic industries, they often create unpredictable ripple effects throughout the supply chain.

Material Impact Assessment

Steel and Aluminum
The recent 25% tariff on imported steel and proposed increases for aluminum are game changers. These changes alone are projected to add billions to construction costs nationwide.

Glass and Facades
Window manufacturers are facing major cost spikes. The steel and aluminum tariffs indirectly raise prices for framing and hardware, while specialized glass imports from Europe and Asia are becoming increasingly expensive.

Kitchen and Bath Components
At Rivendale Homes, we’ve seen cabinetry prices jump 5–15% since the start of the year. Fixtures and appliances may see cost hikes of 15–25% in some categories—disrupting the high-end finish expectations of many clients.

Lumber
Softwood lumber—of which 85% of U.S. imports come from Canada—is under pressure. The U.S. Commerce Department has announced a jump from a 14.5% tariff to a staggering 34.5% by late summer. With domestic production unable to meet demand, this could significantly drive up framing costs.

What This Means for Architects
These shifts underscore the need for more agile design processes. Architects can no longer treat material selection as a static line item—it must evolve with market forces. In Part 2, we’ll explore how strategic architect-builder partnerships are helping to navigate these headwinds.

Don’t miss Part 2 of this series, where we dive into collaborative strategies to protect your budget and preserve design integrity

‍