Communicating the value of architecture
With the Draft NSW Building Bill reigniting concerns about the community's lack of understanding of the differences between architects and building designers, communicating the value of architectural services is more important than ever.
Something simple that every architecture practice can do is share information explaining these differences. So, the team at New Doors has attempted to do just that.
Practices are free to copy and paste the article below, and share it on their website blogs, social media feeds and database emails. We simply ask that you include the final line acknowledging the article's authorship and maintain the web links.
Architects vs Building Designers: How to Decide Which is Right for Your Project
Have you ever wondered what the differences are between an architect and a building designer? Selecting the best service provider for your project requires considering various factors, such as the project type, scale, and overall complexity, as well as your brief, project vision, and budget.
The design and renovation of private homes is the most contested area, with much greater restrictions placed on the kinds of commercial projects building designers can work on. While building designers are widely considered cheaper, you get what you pay for, as architects provide much greater value for money. A 2018 study based on an analysis of sales data by ArchiTeam Cooperative, in conjunction with the University of Melbourne, found that homes renovated by architects increase in value by 1.2% per annum more quickly than those renovated without an architect. Whilst that 1.2% might not sound a lot, for a house with the median price of $1.2 million dollars this amounts to a substantial $256,000 increase in value over ten years.
Below we have outlined the key differences between architects and building designers:
Education and Qualifications
Architects
Must complete a 5-year university degree in architecture (Bachelor’s or Master’s).
Post-degree, they are required to undergo 2 years of supervised experience.
To become a registered architect, they must pass the Architectural Practice Examination (APE), administered by the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA).
Building Designers
Generally, they complete a Diploma or Advanced Diploma in Building Design or Architectural Drafting (which takes 2-3 years of study). Some may have additional qualifications in specific areas (e.g., interior design, drafting). It is up to consumers to assess this variability in qualifications.
Registration is not as regulated or standardised across states, though some states require registration, such as Victoria, Queensland and New South Wales. However, registration involves simply completing an application, unlike the rigorous examinations that architects undergo to become registered.
Skill Level
Architects
Have extensive training in design theory, structural integrity, sustainability, and complex project coordination such as managing and integrating the inputs of town planners and engineers.
They are skilled in creating bespoke, innovative designs for various building types.
Their education emphasises urban planning, construction techniques, and regulatory compliance.
Possess advanced visualisation and modelling skills, including expertise in sophisticated 3D modelling software and Building Information Modeling (BIM).
Trained in acoustics, lighting design, and environmental psychology to create spaces that enhance user experience.
Develop expertise in materials science and emerging construction technologies to push boundaries in sustainable design.
Have deep knowledge of architectural history and theory, allowing them to draw from historical precedents while innovating.
Skilled in managing large-scale budgets and complex stakeholder relationships across extended project timelines.
Trained in post-occupancy evaluation and building performance assessment.
Building Designers
Tend to focus more on practical aspects of building design, technical drawings, and compliance with building codes.
They often work on more straightforward designs for residential, commercial, and small-scale developments.
Building designers may not have the same depth of theoretical or creative design training as architects.
Legal Authority and Registration
Architects
Must be registered with a state or territory’s Architects Registration Board (e.g., ARBV in Victoria, NSW Architects Registration Board).
Only registered architects can legally call themselves “architects” and practice under this title.
Architects can work on all classes of buildings, including complex, high-rise, and large commercial or public infrastructure projects.
Building Designers
In some states (e.g., Victoria, Queensland), building designers must be registered or accredited; in others, registration is not required.
Building designers can typically work on most residential and smaller commercial projects, but depending on the state's regulations, they may be limited in their capacity to work on more complex or larger-scale developments.
Authority to Work on Specific Building Classes
Architects
Can design and oversee projects for all classes of buildings, including:
Class 1 & 2: Residential buildings
Class 3 & 9: Hotels, aged care, hospitals, and other public buildings
Class 5 & 6: Commercial offices and retail shops
Class 7 & 8: Factories and warehouses.
Building Designers
Typically work on Class 1 (residential homes) and Class 2 (low-rise apartments or small-scale buildings).
They may be limited or restricted from working on higher-class, complex projects like hospitals, high-rise buildings, or large commercial structures, depending on state regulations and the scope of their qualifications.
While both architects and building designers play crucial roles in the design and construction of buildings, the key differences between the two lie in their qualifications, scope of expertise, and legal authority. Architects bring a deeper level of design theory, creativity, and regulatory knowledge to complex projects, particularly in larger-scale or public infrastructure developments. In contrast, building designers can offer a more cost-effective solution for smaller residential or commercial projects but may bring a lower level of design education and skill. Ultimately, choosing between an architect and a building designer depends on your project’s complexity, scale, and desired outcome. Careful consideration of these factors will help you make the right choice for your specific needs.
This article was originally written by Alicia Brown, Director of New Doors Agency and shared by the Association of Consulting Architects.