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The term
architecture can be used to mean a process, a profession
or documentation. As a process, architecture is the
activity of designing and constructing buildings and
other physical structures by a person or a machine,
primarily done to provide socially purposeful shelter.
Architects are persons legally permitted to practice
architecture. Once you’ve chosen an architect, you’ll
want to know exactly what role they will play in
completing your project. Although the role of an
architect can differ between projects and architect
firms, there are a few general jobs an architect will do
to help you design and build your new home or building
conversion.
Firstly, an architect will provide advice on the best
ways you can achieve your plans within the constraints
set by building regulations and planning permission.
During this phase, the architect will also produce the
plans to be submitted to the local council's planning
department.
Once the plans have been submitted, the architect will
then deal with all the correspondence with the
regulatory bodies, such as local authorities and
utilities companies, as well as preparing drawings
required to show how the new building will meet UK
building regulations. If any extra permission is
required, such as conservation area consent, then the
architect will also negotiate this on your behalf.
After the planning permission has been granted, many
architects will take on the responsibility of preparing
details of the cost of the project and getting in touch
with builders for quotes. You should check that your
architect is willing to do all this on your behalf, and
remember it is ultimately up to you to choose a builder
you are happy with.
When you have hired a building firm, you are ready to
begin building your new home or office and many
architects will offer to oversee this process to ensure
all the design plans are being adhered to and that
progress is being made at the right pace. It is useful
to allow the architect to be involved in this part of
the project so they are on hand to make decisions about
any unforeseen circumstances that will no doubt arise
during the building process.
An architect’s role also includes administering the
building contract, submitting financial reports, and
giving advice on maintenance regimes, which are done at
various stages of the project.
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