definition
strict definition
client
The owner of a structure's original construction project, retaining that role after any later sale.
The client of any structure or object is the owner of its original construction project. The client may or may not continue as the owner after completion, but retains its historic role as the original client.
The role refers to the original project. Selling the completed object does not transfer that historic client relationship to the purchaser.
A developer coordinates development, while the client owns the original construction project. The same entity can perform both roles, but coordination alone does not establish project ownership.