Thinking of building a new home or complex? Will you use an architect
or a building designer? Both are involved in the design of buildings –
their appearance, layout, structure, and so on. But what’s the
difference?
The simplest difference is a legal one. To be called an “architect” in
NSW, you have to be registered with the Board of Architects of NSW. The
title “building designer” can be used by anyone designing buildings.
But that’s hardly even scratching the surface. Brian Basford is a
building designer and treasurer of the Building Designers Association
of NSW. He suggests that building designers are generally less
expensive, and mostly involved in less flamboyant buildings. “It’s
horses for courses. Most architects probably wouldn’t want to design a
single bedroom extension for a pensioner, whereas I’ve done a lot of
that.”
Brian also stressed that there are quite often overlaps between what
architects do and what building designers do. There’s no simple rule.
“But no matter what the job, good building designers and good
architects both produce quality work”, he says.
Architect Gary Kurzer agrees that architects are more likely to be
involved with more distinctive, “up-market” buildings. But not because
of cost. “Architects work to your budget just like building designers.
The real reason is that architects are a little more likely to stretch
the boundaries and challenge convention.”
According to Gary, you should generally choose an architect if you want
more than just a literal translation of your brief. “My clients
normally have a rough idea of what they want. I take that idea and
transform it into something they love, but could never have imagined
themselves.”
The most important thing is knowing what you want from the service, and choosing someone that suits your job.
And whether you choose an architect or building designer, remember,
qualifications are no guarantee of quality. Always ask to see previous
examples of their work. Ask for references from previous customers. Ask
to see their qualifications. Ask how long they’ve been working. Do they
have professional indemnity insurance? Are they a member of an
accredited body?…
In the end, it’s like anything else… there’s no substitute for common sense.
Thanks to Gary Kurzer, Architect, 0411044448, and Brian Basford, Building Designer.
FAQs
Q: Are architects and building designers the same thing?
A: No. Architects must be registered with the Board of Architects of NSW.
Q: Will I get a better design from an architect?
A: Not necessarily. The only guarantee is a minimum level of
qualifications. Architects must have a Bachelor of Architecture degree
(5 years) as well as the demonstrated ability to deal with clients and
satisfy their requirements. Generally this means at least a couple of
years experience in an architect’s office.
Q: Are building designers more in touch with builders and other trades?
A: Not necessarily. Architects are trained to deal with and manage all
aspects of the building project. It all comes down to the individual’s
experience and abilities.
Q: Are Building designers “would-be” architects?
A: No. Building design is a recognised profession with its own national
body (the BDAA) offering 3 levels of accreditation based on experience
and quality – but registration isn’t compulsory. Many building
designers have the qualifications to register with the Board of
Architects but they choose not to because they don’t think the name
“architect” is worth the ongoing cost of registration.
Q: Are architects more expensive?
A: Not necessarily. An architect will work to your budget like a
building designer. They can do anything from a simple design to very
complex interior and exterior detailing to superintendence of the
building process. Your building costs and ongoing running costs may
also be less. For example, find out if your architect is incorporating
cost-saving measures into the building process. They may also design to
take advantage of natural lighting, ventilation, heating, cooling, etc.
which will save you less in electricity.
Q: How do I tell if they’re really an architect?
A: Call the Board of Architects of NSW – (02) 93564900 or visit http://www.boarch.nsw.gov.au/f_consumer.html.
Q: How do I look for an accredited building designer?
A: Call the Building Designers Association of NSW – Sydney (02)
49264855 or visit http://www.bdansw.com.au or
http://www.bdaa.com.au/index.htm.
Q: Where else can I go for further information?
A: http://www.architecture.com.au - Royal Australian Institute of Architects
http://www.bdansw.com.au - Building Designers Association of NSW
