Only an Architect is an Architect.
Starting to plan your build is exciting but it can also be confusing to know who you need to work with and where to start. In this post we will cover the different types of architectural professionals so you know who will be best suited to your project.
We often get asked what the difference is so here is a quick explanation
ARCHITECT – An architect in the UK, is someone who is registered on the Architects Registration Board (ARB). In Ireland registration is completed through The Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI)
CHARTERED ARCHITECT – An architect in the UK, is someone who is registered on the Architects Registration Board (ARB) and also a member of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). There are also regional societies which Architects can join, in Northern Ireland this would be the Royal Society of Ulster Architects (RSUA)
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER – This is a broad term and the title is not protected by a regulatory body. Therefore, the title could apply to those with an architectural qualification or in some cases, none at all. Qualifications, experience, and expertise will vary from person to person.
For any building project it is always worthwhile using a professional. They can help you establish your brief, budget, planning constraints, building regs, help you select a builder and inspect their work.
ARCHITECTS
The term ‘architect’ is protected by law, which means that only professionals who have successfully completed seven years of training and are registered with the Architects Registration Board (ARB) can legally call themselves an architect.
Architects are trained in creative design as well as the practical aspects of construction, so they are able to offer their clients a complete service, from design concept right through to the supervision of the construction process. Most architects become a Chartered Member of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).
Both the ARB and RIBA have strict codes of conduct, so members must maintain the utmost level of professionalism.
Paul McAlister is a registered member of the ARB and has been a Chartered Member of the RIBA since 1997.
Architects are able to offer you ‘full services’, from concept design to detailed construction drawings and specifications, but can also administer the contract between you and your builder throughout the construction phase.
ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNERS/TECHNICIANS
This is really a broad term covering all of the above and the title is not protected by a regulatory body. Therefore, the title could apply to those with an architectural qualification or in some cases, none at all.
Qualifications, experience, and expertise will vary from person to person. So, here are a few things to consider/ questions to ask when appointing any architectural design professional below
1. Do they hold professional qualifications demonstrating their competence to deliver your project?
2. Are they registered with the any of the following: ARB, RIBA or CIAT?
3. Do they hold adequate insurance to protect you from errors in their work (Professional Indemnity Insurance)?
4. If they do not hold adequate professional indemnity insurance, their drawings and specifications should not be used for construction. Instead, the design liability could be passed onto your contractor (builder). For example, the architectural designer could prepare preliminary drawings for planning only. Then, the contractor can develop the design into construction drawings and take responsibility under their insurance.
5. Have they done similar projects before? Ask to see examples when you meet and get references from their past clients.
Below is an example of a Georgian Design completed by and Architect and one a Architectural Technician I think is clear to see the difference!
Architect Designed Home
Technician Designed Home
If you are looking for help with your next project contact us on the details below, we offer face to face meetings where possible or video conferencing facilities such as Zoom, Skype etc. Both of these allow you to share screens so we can discuss your ideas etc.