Do I Need an Architect or a Chartered Architectural Technologist?
Many people start by searching for an architect. Here’s what a Chartered Architectural Technologist is, how the two roles compare, and how to choose the right professional for your home project.
When people start planning an extension or renovation, the first search is often for “an architect near me”. It’s a natural place to start, and it’s a question I’m asked regularly.
So, to be clear from the outset: I am not an architect. I am James Angus MCIAT, a Chartered Architectural Technologist, and Angus Design Ltd is a CIAT Accredited Practice. This article explains what that means, how the two roles compare, and how to choose the right professional for your project.
WHAT IS A CHARTERED ARCHITECTURAL TECHNOLOGIST?
Chartered Architectural Technologists are members of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT), shown by the letters MCIAT or FCIAT after their name. CIAT describes them as qualified to offer design services and manage projects from inception to completion.
Becoming chartered involves an accredited degree or equivalent, a period of recorded professional experience and a professional assessment. Once chartered, we must:
• Follow CIAT’s Code of Conduct
• Hold Professional Indemnity Insurance
• Keep our knowledge up to date through Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
WHAT IS AN ARCHITECT?
In the UK, “architect” is a title protected by law. Only people registered with the Architects Registration Board (ARB) can use it in business. Architects follow a separate route of education and training, with a strong emphasis on design.
SO WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE?
Both are qualified professionals who can design your home project, prepare planning applications and produce the technical drawings needed for Building Regulations and construction. The difference is mainly in training and emphasis.
Architectural technologists are trained in both design and the science of building: how a building goes together, how it performs and how it meets the regulations. That technical grounding is a big part of why builders so often comment on the level of detail in our drawings.
As with all things in life, these are only titles. What really counts is experience, aptitude and how well your designer listens to you.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOUR PROJECT?
For extensions, refurbishments, retrofit and new homes, a Chartered Architectural Technologist can guide you from first ideas through to completion. At Angus Design, that includes:
• Briefing, measured surveys and design options
• Planning applications and Certificates of Lawfulness
• Detailed design and Building Regulations drawings
• Principal Designer duties under the CDM Regulations
• Support during tender and construction
I have over 20 years’ experience, including time with several of Bristol’s most prominent practices on award-winning commercial and high-end residential projects, before setting up Angus Design.
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT PROFESSIONAL
Whoever you choose, a few simple checks will help:
• Check credentials. Architects can be checked on the ARB register, and Chartered Architectural Technologists through CIAT.
• Ask about insurance. Make sure they hold Professional Indemnity Insurance.
• Look at similar projects. Ask to see work like yours, and speak to past clients or builders if you can.
• Ask how fees work. Clear fees for each stage help avoid surprises.
• Choose someone you can talk to. You will work together for many months, so good communication matters.
CLOSING THOUGHTS
If you are looking for a qualified, insured and experienced professional to design your extension, renovation or new home, a Chartered Architectural Technologist may be exactly who you need. I’m always happy to have an initial conversation about your project and whether we’re the right fit.
Related reading
What Does an Architectural Designer Actually Do?
How do I get a quote from Angus Design?
