What Is A Building Architect? Learn About What Architects Do

An architect is a licensed professional who plans, creates a layout, designs, and administers the construction process. They are responsible for the project planning as well as the interior and exterior appearance of the building. They must have technical knowledge of the building structure to increase its value. They collaborate with the client, engineers, and contractors to bring out the best result. They usually work on complex projects and urban planning.

Responsibilities of a Building Architect

• Architectural Designing:

They are professionals who create architectural drawings and layouts to enhance the appearance and structure of the buildings. They closely work with the client to understand their vision and requirements and create layouts and designs which are fulfilling the same. They use their expertise in the same and also provide the client with recommendations if there are any. Their advice helps the client understand what design will work best on their building.

• Space Planning:

A Building architect designs spaces in a way to maximizes functionality and user experience. They create layouts of rooms and spaces to enhance usage and efficiency while also following the building codes and standards set by regulatory bodies.

• Following Building Codes and Regulations:

They are well aware of the building codes and standards that are set by the local regulatory authorities to maintain a safe working environment. They make sure that they obey the legal standards and acquire the required licenses and permits before starting the construction process.

• Material Selection:

Choosing the right material is important to get the desired performance, durability, and aesthetics. Building architects have a good knowledge of what materials to choose and from where to find the appropriate materials at reasonable prices. They select material that fulfills the structural needs, maintenance requirements, sustainability, and climate considerations.

• Keeping Clear Communication:

They communicate with the client regularly to keep them informed about the process and discuss their requirements, expectations, concerns, and feedback. They schedule meetings to discuss the options, proposals, and the client’s input. They also clearly inform the client about their availability, budget, and all other information related to the project to avoid misunderstandings in the future.

• Generating Quote:

They generate a quote and share it with the client before starting to work on the project. They mention all the details like whether they will be providing the material, labor charges, and their fees. The client can then accordingly decide if the given quote comes under their budget or not.

• Forming Construction Documents:

They form and regulate construction documents among the other contractors involved in the construction process. These documents involve drawings, schedules, and other specifications. These documents help in understanding the technical specifications that showcase the design vision accurately.

• Site Monitoring:

Building architects also support the construction team and other contractors by regularly visiting the site and inspecting the construction process. They inform if there are any changes and make sure that it is meeting the quality standards. They also provide recommendations about the materials and make sure that the quality of the materials is up to the mark.

What to Consider While Hiring a Building Architect?

• Qualification:

It is important to make sure that the architect that you are planning to hire is qualified and has a license to practice architecture legally. This involves registration of a license with an architectural regulatory body and proper education from a reputed institution.

• Experience:

Make sure that the professional that you are hiring is experienced in his field. He must have a portfolio to showcase his work which helps in understanding whether they can meet the requirements and vision or not. You can easily dive into their expertise with the help of a portfolio. Pay attention to the quality of their designs and the diversity in their portfolio.

• Reputation:

Research well before hiring a professional. Read reviews to have a better understanding of their work and past experiences. Take references from your friends and relatives if they have hired an architect for work in recent times. Their experience will help you in deciding whether they can fulfill your requirements or not.

• Communication Skills:

A good relationship between the client and the architect is a must and to create that one should keep clear communication. The architect must listen to your needs and understand them. They should be able to design your vision.

• Project Management Skills:

They must be able to manage the project well to ensure the successful completion of it. Discuss their abilities to manage the project, follow the timeline, coordinate with contractors, etc.

• Consider Your Budget:

Have a clear discussion about your budget with the architect. Ask them about their fee structure, payment method, and if there are any additional costs involved. Transparency about the fees is important to avoid any future misunderstandings.

• Legal Considerations:

Be aware of the architects’ terms and conditions and understand them properly. Make sure that the architect has all the necessary documents to avoid any legal penalties in the future.

Conclusion

A building architect is a professional who designs and manages the building structure. They are hired for all kinds of projects no matter how complex it is. Their major responsibility is to enhance the value of the property. They work on designing and space planning while following the rules and regulations set by the authority. You need to research well and hire an architect who is qualified, experienced, and reputed.