Arshi Suleman, Tanvi Singh | International Journal of Landscape Planning and Architecture | Vol 12, Issue 01 | pp. 1-17 | ISSN: 2456-5091
Abstract
Architecture thrives on creativity and originality, yet rising cases of plagiarism and Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) violations threaten professional integrity. The aim of this research is to understand legal and ethical frameworks that balance creativity, authorship, and inspiration. While existing literature on architectural ethics, the Copyright Act, and IPR focuses on broad legal principles, their practical application in architecture remains underexplored. Comparison with international frameworks reveals gaps in India’s legal and ethical systems, emphasizing the need for stronger alignment with global standards to protect creativity and authorship. Using thematic analysis, the study combines surveys, interviews, and secondary data from legal and policy documents, including Council of Architecture (CoA) guidelines and professional codes of conduct. This research explains the dynamics of ethical governance, authorship, and professional accountability in architecture, understanding how ethical and legal frameworks safeguard creativity and authenticity in design. Findings reveal poor IPR awareness, weak enforcement, and institutional gaps in ethical regulation.
Keywords: COA, code of conduct, copyright act, IPR, plagiarism
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How to cite this article
@article{SulemanA2026,
author = {Arshi Suleman and Tanvi Singh},
title = {Professional Ethics and Code of Conduct in Architecture: An Evaluation of Indian Scenario},
journal = {International Journal of Landscape Planning and Architecture},
year = {2026},
volume = {12},
number = {01},
pages = {1--17},
issn = {2456-5091},
url = {https://journalspub.com/publication/ijlpa/article=25247}
}