Who’s Who in Construction
A guide to different roles.
Architects
What is an architect?
‘Architect’ is a protected term in Australia and can only be used by those registered with their state or territory’s governing body.
I am a registered architect with the Architects Registration Board of Victoria (ARBV). When dealing with a registered architect you can have confidence that they:
- have a university degree(s) in architecture (typically 5 years minimum) studying the history, science and art of architecture;
- are covered by professional indemnity insurance; and
- are officially registered as an architect within that state or territory (minimum 2 year process).
What does an architect do?
An architect designs elegant built solutions. It could be a renovation, an extension, a new building(s), or as simple as a front gate. We will bring our expertise in building standards, project cost management, and, (debatably) most importantly, design and aesthetic to create a beautiful and functional outcome. How we do that is through design images, technical & construction documentation, and collaboration with engineers, builders and crafts-persons.
Do I need an architect?
If you have a unique or tricky plot of land, if you can’t find what your family needs within a bulk-builder’s catalogue of set designs, or if you love your neighbourhood but are constantly frustrated by little irks within your home then an architect is for you. I will guide you down the (often convoluted) paths of design choices, town planning requirements, building codes and comforts, construction contracts and queries to a brighter future. It can be a daring adventure or a relaxed journey depending on your personality and we’ll learn a lot about each other on the way.
Are there different types of architects?
After registration there are very few formal landmarks to differentiate architects other than their experience. Typically younger architects will try a number of areas of design (hospitality, aged care, houses, or apartments) before naturally gravitating to their focus. Like many professionals, the more experience an architect has the more exclusive they are likely to be.
My experience has been with education facilities (primary, secondary and tertiary), hospitality, high-end apartments, workplace design, and single dwellings. This breadth of experience has taught me a lot about how people learn and work, efficiencies and ambiance when we cook and dine, and building flexibility into our homes.
How do I know which architect to hire?
Trust your gut and do your research. Hiring any professional whether they be an architect, an accountant or a lawyer should always be a careful decision. Understanding your own needs (e.g. type of project, location, style) will often help narrow down the kind of architect who has the level and type of experience you want. If you’ve never worked with an architect or building designer before I highly recommend working with somebody who will be willing to educate you on what’s happening throughout the entire process so you can feel at ease. There is always an element of chemistry too – this is such a personal, and often long, journey so you really want to work with somebody you get along with.
My passion is removing frictions from everyday rituals. To me rituals are little chapters that make up our daily, weekly, and seasonal stories. Your rituals and your stories are unique to your values and the spaces you inhabit should reflect that. It means I see you as much more than just another 3 bed, 2 bath, 2 car household. I want to get to know you, understand how you love to spend your time, what makes you tick and how your story should be celebrated. (You may not think you have a great story, but I BET you do).
If that sounds like what you’re looking for, I’d love to chat.
P.S. My architecture definitely isn't the perfect choice for everybody, but this section is intended to help you either way.
Draftspersons / building designers / documenters / technicians
Think of the Draftsperson as you would your GP. They are a generalist with a fair knowledge of documentation, typical construction methods, and some design. An architect is like the surgeon. We specialise in making design incisions into cities, neighbourhoods, and houses to create rapid and lasting change.
The duration and type of study and the registration process is typically what differentiates a draftsperson (typically 2+ years of study at a TAFE) from an architect. These TAFE courses are shorter and often focus heavily on the technical aspect of building design and as a result are often hired by architects to work on their construction drawings – usually under the title of documenter or technician.
‘Building Designer’ refers to a draftsperson registered with the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) in Building Design. Any draftsperson preparing plans or drawings for works costing $10,000 or more must be registered, or work for somebody registered, with the VBA and have professional liability insurance.
If your project is quite simple and you know exactly what you want it may be simplest to work with a building designer.
Note: Some registered Building Designers may be registered architects overseas or have completed architectural design courses but chosen Building Design registration for other reasons.
Engineers
Carrying on with the medical metaphors - Engineers are your anaesthetist. They’re very specialised in a particular area, they stick to that specialisation strictly, and we couldn’t do our job without them.
Engineers are specialise in areas such as structural engineering (building frames), civil engineering (from stormwater to bridges), building services engineers (electrical, mechanical & hydraulic systems). They specialise in the science of making a specific system of the building work. They are an integral part of an architect’s team but they do not design buildings.
Project managers
Project managers are, in some ways, a spinoff from architecture. They are typically trained in how to manage a contract and assist in organising large project teams to deliver projects on time. They have no formal qualification requirements and are not required to have any design training. Large commercial clients will sometimes hire a project manager to manage the project team and finances.
Builders
Builders are responsible for the act of building. An experienced builder will have learnt a lot about construction and design over their career however they will usually have no direct experience in the design or documentation of a building. A builder must be registered with the relevant State Building Authority and hold Building Insurance and Public Liability Insurance.
Building companies sometimes have an “In-House Designer” who may be a draftsperson. They will typically work with a set number of designs which they may be able to adjust to suit your site.
While a builder is responsible for the act of building they rarely employ their own tradespersons. Some builders may have an in-house carpentry team but the majority subcontract all of their trades to small, local businesses. This means they can arrange for the most suitable trade for your project and have a competitive bid behind the scenes for every trade package on the project.
Ready to get started? Have a question that’s not covered here? Let’s chat about your project in more detail, make a customised plan, and go through exactly what to expect next. You can request a meeting through the website, Facebook or call me on 0410 151 790.
I can't wait to meet you!
