Imagine a design uniquely yours emerging from those first tentative sketches on the back of an envelope; an architectural solution which encompasses your lifestyle, environment and dreams. A design mindful of energy efficiency and sustainability, aesthetics, composition and relating one detail to another. Architects provide individual, specialised services over and above standard builder’s designs.
What does an Architect do?
An architect guides through the various architectural aspects of building design, documentation and construction processes (including interior design, outdoor living and master planning for the future). Architects manage and collaborate with other professionals that clients may require to provide impartial advice under one unified design direction. Working with clients, services include setting achievable budgets, guiding through the approval processes, assist in obtaining competitive tenders/quotes and during the construction phase, ensuring clients receive the correct build quality and level of finishes, fittings and fixtures.
Architect-designed buildings are great investments
Undertaking a new build or major renovation is likely to be a client’s largest single expenditure. It is prudent to consult with a registered architect as architect-designed buildings are highly sought-after and acknowledged for the benefits and enjoyment of good design.
Architect-designed buildings are energy efficient and sustainable
Architect-designed buildings tend to be more energy-efficient, cheaper to operate and easier to maintain and adjust to meet the future needs of a client and their long-term lifestyle. Master planning and staging services can be provided to meet specific current – and future – needs, while optimising previous investments in the project.
An architect considers internal and external environments, planning for best environmental performance to optimise views and aspect, control unwanted sun/heat gain, promote natural crossflow ventilation, and reduce and conserve energy.
Architects are Specialists in Design
While other practitioners may provide building design services, architects must be registered with the Architects Registration Board in the state or territory in which they want to practise. An architectural education includes a broad spectrum of subjects, and studying architecture develops a number of different skills related to design, problem-solving, technical, construction and communication.
Courses involve many years immersed in developing the necessary skills to produce outstanding results for their client. A minimum of five years’ university training, compulsory practical experience and a registration exam by leading recognised architectural examiners distinguishes architects from other less-qualified building designers.
Many architects describe architecture as a life-long passion and an inherent part of their life. Every project provides opportunities to expand knowledge and skills to meet the individualised solution required for each unique project. New tools and technologies are constantly being developed to enhance the services architects may offer their clients.