Thinking of building a new home or complex In Port Angeles Washington? Will you use an architect or a building designer? Both are involved in the design of buildings – their appearance, layout, structure, and so on. But what’s the difference?

The simplest difference is a legal one. To be called an “architect” in NSW, you have to be registered with the Board of Architects of NSW. The title “building designer” can be used by anyone designing buildings. 

But that’s hardly even scratching the surface. Brian Basford is a building designer and treasurer of the Building Designers Association of NSW. He suggests that building designers are generally less expensive, and mostly involved in less flamboyant buildings. “It’s horses for courses. Most architects probably wouldn’t want to design a single bedroom extension for a pensioner, whereas I’ve done a lot of that.”

There are quite often overlaps between what Port Angeles architects do and what Port Angeles building designers do. There’s no simple rule. But no matter what the job, good building designers and good architects both produce quality work.

Architects are more likely to be involved with more distinctive, “up-market” buildings. But not because of cost. “Architects work to your budget just like Port Angeles building designers. The real reason is that Port Angeles architects are a little more likely to stretch the boundaries and challenge convention.”

You should generally choose an architect if you want more than just a literal translation of your brief. “My clients normally have a rough idea of what they want. I take that idea and transform it into something they love, but could never have imagined themselves.”

The most important thing is knowing what you want from the service, and choosing someone that suits your job.

And whether you choose an architect or building designer in the Port Angeles Washington area, remember, qualifications are no guarantee of quality.  Always ask to see previous examples of their work. Ask for references from previous customers. Ask to see their qualifications. Ask how long they’ve been working. Do they have professional indemnity insurance? Are they a member of an accredited body?…

In the end, it’s like anything else… there’s no substitute for common sense.

A list of Questions and Answers provided by Steve Edwards / Realtor and Building Designer

FAQs
Q: Are architects and building designers the same thing?
A: No. Architects must be registered with the Board of Architects of NSW.

Q: Will I get a better design from an architect?
A: Not necessarily. The only guarantee is a minimum level of qualifications. Architects must have a Bachelor of Architecture degree (5 years) as well as the demonstrated ability to deal with clients and satisfy their requirements. Generally this means at least a couple of years experience in an architect’s office.

Q: Are building designers in Port Angeles more in touch with builders and other trades?
A: Not necessarily. Architects are trained to deal with and manage all aspects of the building project. It all comes down to the individual’s experience and abilities.

Q: Are Port Angeles Building designers “would-be” architects?
A: No. Building design is a recognised profession with its own national body (the BDAA) offering 3 levels of accreditation based on experience and quality – but registration isn’t compulsory. Many building designers have the qualifications to register with the Board of Architects but they choose not to because they don’t think the name “architect” is worth the ongoing cost of registration.

Q: Are architects in Port Angeles more expensive?
A: Not necessarily. An architect will work to your budget like a building designer. They can do anything from a simple design to very complex interior and exterior detailing to superintendence of the building process. Your building costs and ongoing running costs may also be less. For example, find out if your architect is incorporating cost-saving measures into the building process. They may also design to take advantage of natural lighting, ventilation, heating, cooling, etc. which will save you less in electricity.

There is a lot of free information available to you about buying, selling or investing in Port Angeles real estate. For complete information about the Port Angeles real estate market including, current homes for sale, property values, foreclosures, short sales, relocating information, …..Really….. Providing everything you need to know about Port Angeles Washington Real Estate ….Please visit my website at:  http://port-angeles-real-estate.com

Please feel free to contact me (Steve Edwards) at anytime. I’ll be happy to answer / address any questions or concerns you may have.  Call me… I can be reached on my cell at: 360-809-3064 or by email at steveedwards@olypen.com

I know your time is valuable and I’ll make every effort to respond to you within the hour….
As always, your privacy is – “100% guaranteed”.

Thank you!
Steve Edwards