Architecture and design

Architects

Architects work within a design team – often comprising civil, structural and building services engineers; quantity surveyors; other architects and architectural technicians; and planning consultants – to plan and design a project in accordance with a client’s brief. They will also consult with the requisite fire, planning, health and safety and/or environmental authorities. Once building starts, architects work with the main contractor and specialist subcontractors on site. Architects can specialise in certain types of building or particular aspects of the job, such as conservation or project management. They can be self-employed, part of private practice or part of a national or local government department or commercial organisation.

Architectural technician

Architectural technicians (or architectural technologists) are involved throughout the design process. They play a leading role in developing the design to meet the technical requirements of building regulations; preparing applications for fire safety certification; and developing detailed drawings for tendering purposes. They are also crucial in co-ordinating the building design process, ensuring it reflects the input of specialist design subcontractors. Most architectural technologists work in architectural practices but some increasingly work in architectural technology consultancies. Many also take up design roles within the manufacturing industry.

Architectural qualifications

Degree courses in architecture take five years of full-time study, usually including a year working in the profession. This is followed by two years of approved practical experience, and an examination in professional practice. To qualify as an architectural technician/technologist, you need a recognised degree course (generally taking three years of full-time study), followed by two years of approved practical experience. See the RIAI website and the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists website for information on professional qualifications and membership.