Is your ‘architect’ really an Architect?

Did you know that just as every medic isn’t a Doctor… every designer isn’t an Architect?

An Architect has to have University qualifications gained over a minimum period of seven years to gain a qualification that is equivalent to a Master’s Degree. It also means that they have trained on the job as the University qualifications for architecture require set periods of experience gained in Architect’s practices.

Chartered Engineers, Chartered Surveyors and Chartered Technologists play ‘related’ roles in the building design industry, however they do not have the same training.

We often see local advertisements from ‘an architectural designer’ or someone offering ‘architectural services’, and it may come as a surprise to know that using the term ‘architectural’ or ‘architecture’ in a company name or job title does not require any qualifications or ability whatsoever.

Unfortunately the deregulation of the planning system by Prime Minister Thatcher in the early 80’s which saw the closure of many public sector architect departments which had employed thousands of architects across the country, then moved to ensure service providers competed on a level playing field. This saw the controversial abolition of RIBA fee scales, creating a situation where clients unknowingly made choices on the designers of their buildings mainly based on price rather than on the quality of their previous work.

Engaging an Architect can save you money by costing far less than the value added and not just to the project but its surrounding area too.

An Architect needs to be registered on the Architect’s registration Board (ARB) to use the title ‘Architect’. Always check the ARB register (https://www.architects-register.org.uk/) to make sure your ‘architect’ is an Architect!