Architectural Services- Your Design Team FAQ

In this context “Architectural Services” describes the core design, information management and building procurement tasks which are carried out by architects. A full list of duties is included in the RIAI standard contract for employing an architect: “Client Architect Agreement”. The architect may also provide services under Health and Safety and Building Control Legislation.On some very small renovation projects the architect is the only professional services provider, but most projects require other consultants; this page describes the architect\s role within the design team. Practicing architects have a broad knowledge of all matters relating to construction, sufficient to guarantee quality and cost control on a domestic project, but we are generalists and there are many circumstances when it is prudent for us to call upon specialist expert advice in our clients’ interests.

Lead Consultant

In the broadest possible sense, the architect is the “go-to-guy” when you want to build. DKAD maintains an ever- expanding network of builders, artists, designers and tradesmen who can physically make the building happen. Through design and construction, we coordinate the efforts of others and work to make the building more than the sum of it\s parts.The architect is the starting point for the process, the principal advisor at all times and your fiduciary agent when appointed under contract. They work for you with the goal of achieving the project you want and they are legally required to act with your best interests in mind.

Cohesive Vision

The architect is also the only part of the design team trained in spatial design; they are usually the only ones who have passed exams on topics such as light- levels in buildings and waterproofing. On a more philospohical level, they have an overview of the project, and their personal input into the design and selection of hundreds of parts gives the building a consistent aesthetic.

Specifically, What Does The Architect Do?

1. Spatial Design
2. Recording and interpreting your brief and translating it into a working design
3. Coordinating design by other consultants
4. Coordinating budget control by other consultants
5. Managing client communication
6. Planning permission and planning appeals
7. Technical design such as keeping heat in and water out
8. Advising on your procurement strategy and conducting a tender or negotiated building contract.
9. Administering the building contract to ensure quality and proper expenditure of the budget during construction
10. Certification of the completed building.