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     The most important piece of architecture that you are ever likely to experience is your own home: it’s the one piece of the built environment in which you will spend most of your life. Architects spend four to five years training while all the time considering the creative use of space, the appropriateness of materials, the importance of detail and the intangible improvements in human wellbeing that occurs in a well-designed environment. So we ought to use them.
Kevin McCloud ‘Grand Designs Handbook’ 2006

Who is an architect?

     An architect is usually a university trained, multi skilled professional who is required to be registered with the Board of Architects according to the rules of our nation. They are also required to undertake continuing professional development to ensure their skills and experiences remain relevant and up to date. This is to protect your interests so you know when you engage an architect you will be working with a fully qualified professional.

the difference between an architect and other building designer (engineers).

     Generally ‘building designers’ have limited formal design training. They will draw what you ask them to but may not make suggestions or present you with options. They have skills to provide you with building application drawings but may not take responsibility for cost estimates or ensure that the design meets your budget but only Architects can. Architects offer a far greater scope of services based on their higher skills and experience.

The basic advantages of using an architect.

Value for money

      Architects are professional problem solvers. Their experience and insights can help stretch your budget and add value to your property. They might suggest new ways of utilising space and light, widen the palette of materials, finishes or fittings, find a builder at the right price, and propose design solutions that will reduce your bills when the building is up and running. At a fraction of the total cost of your project, an architect’s fees will prove a sound investment.

Peace of mind

      You think the builders will be doing all the hard work? A mountain of paperwork awaits anyone undertaking a building project. But an architect can help make a molehill of it. When you hire an architect, you have someone on your side who knows the construction industry’s working methods and standards and can guide you through all the relevant legislation, regulations and contractual arrangements. They will have the recognised educational qualifications and have reached the level of experience necessary to be registered with the Architects’ Registration Board and thereby legally qualify for the title of ‘architect’. The earlier they are brought in, the more they can help get the project moving, with site studies, securing planning approvals and working out financing

Imagination

     An architect can lift your project out of the ordinary, and turn a functional structure into one that can give pleasure for decades. Whether it’s a modern extension, a period restoration or a new HQ, there will be architects whose inspiration and ideas will help to realise and even exceed your own ambitions.

Other activities of an architect.

• Advise on selection of a site
• Help you put together your brief
• Design and plan to match your personal requirements and budget
• Prepare drawings for approval
• Obtain competitive quotes from builders.
•  Be involved on site during construction to ensure the building is completed as per the documents.

    A good architect can incorporate current trends and concepts. For example ‘sustainability’ and ‘energy efficiency’ are desirable in new homes nowadays and a skilled architect can sensitively include these ideas and still produce a building that is pleasant and appealing.

This article was written by Ivan Josephat.