Thinking of building a replacement home or complex? Will you use an architect or a building designer?
Both are involved within the Design Build Services Malaysia 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 got to be registered with the Board of Architects of NSW. The title “building designer” are often used by anyone designing buildings.
But that’s hardly even scratching the surface. Brian Basford may be a building designer and treasurer of the Building Designers Association of NSW. He suggests that building designers are generally less costly , and mostly involved in less flamboyant buildings. “It’s horses for courses. Most architects probably wouldn’t want to style a single bedroom extension for a pensioner, whereas I’ve done plenty of that.”
Brian also stressed that there are very often overlaps between what architects do and what building designers do. There’s no simple rule. “But regardless of 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 due to cost. “Architects work to your budget a bit like building designers. the important reason is that architects are a little more likely to stretch the boundaries and challenge convention.”
According to Gary, you ought to 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 need . I take that concept 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 select an architect or building designer, remember, qualifications are not any guarantee of quality. Always ask to work out previous examples of their work. invite references from previous customers. Ask to work out their qualifications. Ask how long they’ve been working. Do they need 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 better design from an architect?
A: Not necessarily. the sole guarantee is a minimum level of qualifications. Architects must have a Bachelor of Architecture degree (5 years) also as the demonstrated ability to deal with clients and satisfy their requirements. Generally this suggests 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 down to the individual’s experience and abilities.
Q: Are Building designers “would-be” architects?
A: No. Building design may 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 worth the ongoing cost of registration.
Q: Are architects more expensive?
A: Not necessarily. An architect will work to your budget sort of a building designer. they will 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 can also be less. for instance , discover if your architect is incorporating cost-saving measures into the building process. they’ll also design to take advantage of natural lighting, ventilation, heating, cooling, etc. which can save you less in electricity.