Steve
Curt's idea is much 'cleaner' than all the troughs, conduit, boxes, etc...
I would think an architect would like to save his customer money, space, time and the flexibility the gear would add.
Try putting the idea before them and make it seem like the only way to go, being a salesman is part of our job, sometimes the 'fun' part. Don't forget to tell him all the money he is going to save.
Good Luck!
Pierre