As design disciplines increasingly converge in the digital space, the lines between architecture, graphic design, and other creative domains often blur. Platforms like My Dibs, which empower users to create, showcase, and share visual designs, are now becoming key players in the broader discussion around intellectual property rights (IPR) — especially for architectural works. But what does this mean for architects and designers alike?
What Are Architectural Intellectual Property Rights?
Architectural intellectual property rights refer to the legal protections granted to the original work of an architect. This includes:
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Building designs (both conceptual and constructed)
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Technical drawings and blueprints
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3D models and visual renderings
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Unique structural and aesthetic expressions
These rights are protected under copyright law in most jurisdictions, and in some cases, also under design patent or trade dress law.
How Do These Rights Apply to Platforms Like My Dibs?
Graphic design platforms like My Dibs provide a collaborative and accessible environment for visual creators. But when architectural elements — such as floor plans, facade designs, or 3D visualizations — are uploaded, it raises important questions:
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Who owns the rights to the uploaded content?
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Can other users adapt or reuse an architect’s designs?
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What protections are in place against infringement?
1. Proof of possession and Attribution
Creators who upload original architectural content to My Dibs typically retain Proof of possession of their work, unless otherwise specified by the platform’s terms of service. It is critical that users ensure:
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They have the rights to any architectural work they upload.
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Proper attribution is given if the work is collaborative.
2. Licensing and Usage Rights
My Dibs and similar platforms often allow creators to choose licensing terms (e.g., all rights reserved, Creative Commons). Architects should be careful to:
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Clearly define how others may use their work.
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Avoid using licensed or commissioned work without proper permissions.
3. Risks of Infringement
Digital platforms are vulnerable to unauthorized use or adaptation of uploaded designs. An architectural plan or concept shared on My Dibs could be copied and used in real-world projects without consent — which could lead to legal disputes.
To mitigate this:
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Include watermarks or metadata with copyright information.
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Consider partial uploads or lower-resolution previews for public sharing.
Why It Matters for Architects and Designers
Architectural designs are not just artistic expressions — they’re intellectual property with tangible commercial value. As architecture finds a place in digital platforms originally built for graphic or digital design, understanding and enforcing IPR becomes essential to protect creative integrity and business interests.
Final Thoughts
As platforms like My Dibs expand into multi-disciplinary creative spaces, recognizing and upholding architectural intellectual property rights is crucial. For architects, it’s about more than just visibility — it’s about protecting the originality, effort, and identity embedded in every design.
By staying informed and intentional about how architectural content is shared and licensed, designers can fully leverage the benefits of digital platforms without compromising their creative Proof of possession
