Why Should I Use an Architectural Technologist?

Early on in your building project, you will need to decide the design route you are going to take. This month, Natasha Brinsmead takes a look at what a chartered architectural technologist could bring to your build

There are many people qualified to design plans for your home, but who should you choose? This month, we look at what an architectural technologist can bring to your project

When you start to look for someone to generate a design for your build project, be it a large-scale self-build or a smaller extension or renovation, you will find that there are various professions offering architectural services.

Some projects, such as small extensions or remodelling schemes, may be within the capabilities of the homeowner or a draughtsperson, as long as they have the knowledge and skills to navigate the various regulatory, legislative and safety requirements. Larger selfbuilds and renovations will require the services of an experienced design professional.

While most self-builders and renovators would use the term ‘architect’ in a generic way, it’s worth remembering that this term is protected by statute and can only be used by one profession. On the other hand, the functions of a designer are not protected and there are qualified professionals that could provide the services you require. This article focuses on the skills and abilities of the chartered architectural technologist.

What is a Chartered Architectural Technologist?

The Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT: ciat.org.uk), the industry body for the profession, describes the discipline as: “focusing on the design of buildings and their production and performance through the process, management and integral use of technology.”

According to CIAT, chartered architectural technologists are: “qualified to offer design services and manage projects from inception to completion. They lead the technological design of a project; forming the link between concept, innovation and realisation.” In order to become a member of CIAT, and use the letters MCIAT after their name, individuals need to have to either completed an accredited degree, Higher National Diploma or the S/NVQ4 in Architectural Technology. This then needs to be followed by practical and evidenced experience, with competence demonstrated at a formal interview. In comparison, the term architect can only be used by professionals who have successfully completed seven years’ training and are registered with the Architects Registration Board (ARB: arb.org.uk). Most will also be Chartered Members of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA: architecture.com).

It’s important to note that architectural technicians and non-chartered architectural technologists do not have to be registered with CIAT, but they may not hold the necessary academic qualifications or skills and experience to carry out satisfactory design services. As such, it’s always worth checking to see that they are properly qualified.

What Can a Chartered Architectural Technologist Do For Me?

In general, a chartered architectural technologist will be able to create a design for you based on your brief, submit your plans for approval, work with the other professionals involved in the build, act as a project manager and deal with the day to day running of the project. (The extent of their involvement depends on what you want from them and also, partly, on your budget.)

The skills of chartered architectural technologists tend to sit somewhere between the creative side of building design (the bit that architects usually specialise in) and in building science, engineering and technology.

“Chartered architectural technologists are the Swiss army knives of architecture”

Although it can be difficult to draw a definite line between what a chartered architectural technologist can offer and the skills of an architect, as a general guide, architects are usually more design led, with more background, interest and experience in the aesthetics of a building.

Chartered architectural technologists, on the other hand, have often had more experience and training in the science and technology of a building — how a building is put together and the complexities of the construction and materials being used. “They are the Swiss army knives of architecture — a good chartered architectural technologist will be a fabulous designer with an in-depth knowledge of technology,” says Eddie Weir, a chartered architectural technologist and partner and founder of Architectural Design Partnership.

“They are a one-stop shop in that they can take you from a design concept to a finished project,” he continues. “You get conception to completion — so providing more for your money in some ways. It is hard to design a building without one and most architectural practices need one.”

Who Do I Approach for a Creative Design?

If you have very firm ideas of how you want your project to look, or are undertaking a renovation or conversion that will involve a large amount of structural calculations, then a chartered architectural technologist is a wise choice. If you are after a one-of-a-kind, innovative design, then it could be that an architect is your best bet.

However, many chartered architectural technologists will be very creative and fully capable of producing eye-catching and innovative designs on top of being more scientifically led. Likewise, many architects will also be highly technical in their approach.

The key with both professions is to do your research, to look at their previous work and ideally speak to past clients about their experiences of working with them.

How Will I Approach the Cost of a Chartered Architectural Technologist?

The idea that using a chartered architectural technologist will be cheaper than using an architect is a myth.

“What you will be charged will depend on the complexity, scale and location of the project and the level of involvement that your chartered architectural technologist will be having, as agreed in your original terms of appointment and scope of services,” says CIAT.

“There are three main ways that you can approach design costs,” adds Michael Holmes, HB&R’S head of content and product development. “You could agree a fixed price for some or all of the key stages of your project, such as design concepts, planning, construction drawings and full tender drawings. Alternatively, you could agree an hourly or daily rate. As a third option, you could agree a percentage of the build contract.”