Lobbys

Lobbies, in standard English, refers to two related concepts that share a root in the idea of passage and gathering. An architectural lobby is a large public space near the main entrance of a building, designed to shelter visitors, display information, and route people to elevators and corridors. A political lobby refers to organized groups or individuals who seek to influence public policy or legislation. The plural of lobby is lobbies; lobbys is a nonstandard spelling sometimes seen in informal contexts.

Lobbies serve as reception areas, often containing seating, signage, and service desks. They function as transitional spaces from exterior to interior and may include security controls, climate control, and acoustical design. They vary by building type, such as hotel lobbies, office lobbies, or government building lobbies.

Political lobbies organize members, staff, and resources to advocate for or against policy proposals. They may represent corporations, unions, professional associations, non-profit groups, or informal coalitions. Common methods include direct meetings with lawmakers, submitting policy papers, organizing testimony, lobbying campaigns, and funding research. Transparency rules in many countries require lobbyists to register and disclose clients, expenditures, and activities.

Impact and ethics: Critics argue lobbying can give disproportionate influence to well-funded interests, while supporters note it provides expertise and a channel for public input. Regulations aim to promote accountability, such as registration, reporting, cooling-off periods for former officials, and codes of conduct.

The architectural term derives from public spaces near entrances, while the political sense originates in parliamentary practice where officials would mingle in the lobby to discuss business.