Architectural services without a contract with a construction company

Hello everyone,

a question that has been occupying me recently:

I am currently a "prospective customer" at a construction company, where I have been planning the floor plan of the single-family house to be built with the architect (employed by the construction company) for weeks. However, no contract has been concluded with anyone so far, neither in writing nor has there been a concrete verbal commitment. On my part, it was also not clearly stated that other construction companies could receive the order if they submitted a suitable offer, but "it is assumed" (at least I think so) that one will receive the order.

I can imagine that the construction contract has not yet come into existence, but what about the architect's services?
Is all this to be seen as acquisition-related preliminary services of the company, or have I already committed myself to a contract at least regarding the planning by the architect through "implied conduct"? After all, there have already been appointments at the company's office and on site as well as numerous emails to create the optimal floor plan and planning.

In principle, I assume that all this is still to be seen as a preliminary service, but what does the legislator say about it?

Thank you for your answers!

Principally, I assume that all of this is still to be seen as preliminary work, but what does the legislator say about it?

You don't want to sign with the provider anymore? Basically, in conversations with BT, GU/GÜ—unless otherwise _agreed in writing_ and unlike with _independent_ architects—all preparatory work is free of charge for a prospective client. Rhineland greetings

Thank you very much, that helps me further!