Thinking of building a replacement home or complex? Will you employ an architect or a building designer?

Both are involved within 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’ve to be registered with the Board of Architects of NSW. The title “building designer” are often employed by anyone designing buildings.

But that’s hardly even scratching the surface. Brian Basford could also be 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 style one bedroom extension for a pensioner, whereas I’ve done plenty of that.”

Brian also stressed that there are fairly 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 more distinctive, “up-market” buildings. But not thanks to cost. “Architects work to your budget a touch like building designers. the important reason is that architects are a touch 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 have . 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 selecting someone that suits your job.

And whether you decide on an architect or building designer, remember, qualifications aren’t any guarantee of quality. Always ask to figure out previous examples of their work. invite references from previous customers. Ask to figure out 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 sense .

Thanks to Gary Kurzer, Architect, 0411044448, and Brian Basford, Building Designer.

FAQs

Q: Are architects and building designers the identical thing?

A: No. Architects must be registered with the Board of Architects of NSW.

Q: Will i buy a far 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) also because 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-tuned with builders and other trades?

A: Not necessarily. Architects are trained to cater to and manage all aspects of the building project. It all comes right right down to the individual’s experience and abilities.

Q: Are Building designers “would-be” architects?

A: No. Building design could also be 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 to not because they don’t think the name “architect” is well worth the ongoing cost of Design & Build.

Q: Are architects more expensive?

A: Not necessarily. An architect will work to your budget kind of a building designer. they’re going to 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 also can be less. as an example , discover if your architect is incorporating cost-saving measures into the building process. they’ll also design to require advantage of natural lighting, ventilation, heating, cooling, etc. which may save you less in electricity.

 

Rykasc Dco (an archi + interior design co.)
27 01, Jalan Bestari 4/2, Taman Nusa Bestari, 79150 Nusajaya, Johor
013-505 1950