What is protected by copyright in architecture?

• A. Building compositions are protected.
• B. Ideas behind a building concept are protected.
• C. Common building parts like windows are protected.
• D. The architect's day-to-day methods are protected.

Answer: (A)

Copyright protects the expressive, original design that shows the architect’s creative choices—the building’s composition. This means the unique arrangement of forms, massing, façade treatment, proportion, and ornamental elements that convey a specific design, as captured in drawings, plans, photos, or the finished work. It doesn’t cover ideas behind a concept, which aren’t protectable as copyright; it doesn’t protect common, functional parts like windows or doors; and it doesn’t cover the architect’s day-to-day methods or routines. So the strongest protection is for the distinctive composition of a building’s design.