What is an Architect's role?

Once a client has chosen you as an architect, he will want to know exactly what role you will play in completing his/her project. Although, the role of an architect can differ between projects and firms, there are a few necessary jobs an architect will need to do. 

But before we talk about the roles and responsibilities of an architect, you must understand that there are two types of architecture:

1: Everyday architecture (Bread and Butter projects) i.e. houses, shops, schools etc., which comprise 95% of building stock of the nation.

2: Architecture for art, i.e. institutions, religious building, airports, etc. which comprise 5% of total stock of the building industry.

It is also true that 95 % architects want to work for 5% of buildings, whereas only 5% architects gets the opportunity to work for architecture for art  projects.

William Wayne describes in his book 'Architecture and You', 

“Architects are admittedly a strange bee. Most creative people are a bit strange at times. Architects seem to thrive for a change. One decade, they go in one direction; next decade, they do a complete turnaround and go in the opposite direction. This is not all bad. They are searching for new and meaningful forms, more economical solutions building, building that functions better and timely. Sometimes architect has to go back to pick up good things that were left behind. That’s human”

As a strong believer of 'Architectural Management', I would like to focus more on everyday practical rather than philosophical aspects of the architect's role in the industry. 

Following are some of the key roles an architect must play in his/her practice:

1. An architect shall provide advice on the best ways clients can achieve their plans within the constraints set by building regulations and planning permission.

2. The architects shall take the correct design brief and should be able to see the big picture.

The architects shall look beyond the immediate requirements to design flexible buildings that will adapt to the changing needs of the project. 

3. The architects shall try to involve themselves at the earliest planning stage so that they gain more opportunities to understand the project, develop creative solutions and propose ways to reduce costs. 

4. In many building projects, the role of an architect may include coordinating a team of specialist consultants such as landscape architects, engineers, quantity surveyors, interior designers, builders and subcontractors. 

5. The architects shall create total environments, interior and exterior, which are pleasing and functional for the people who work and live within them. 

6. The architects shall use innovation and management of new technologies to offer client a benefit of advancement.

7. The architects shall increase efficiency and productivity through continuous learning and training to keep pace with time and survive in a competitive market.

8. Globalization is demanding QES i.e. Quality, Economy and Speed in all aspects of building process, i.e. design to completion of the building. The architect shall be updated and keep pace with all the three aspects.

9. BIM – Building information modelling is bringing new advancement in digital technology for architects. The architects shall manage and work with higher efficiency using BIM instead of CAD or manual drafting methods. 

10. The architects shall not only focus on their design skills, but also shall learn the management. How can we exclude the role of 'Architectural management'? 

So, if you believe that architect shall be conscious of his/her role in the society, 
say ‘yes 2 Architectural Management’ !