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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
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