Architect (degree)

Knowledge

An Architect has an understanding of…

Skills

An Architect is able to…

• A range of advanced processes and techniques (e.g. digital fabrication) to generate, review and speculate on design proposals with multiple constraints, showing evidence of original thinking

• Generate architectural design proposals
• Evaluate and apply a comprehensive range of visual, oral and written media to test, analyse, critique and explain design proposals  
• Produce drawings and 3D models using relevant software including Computer-Aided Design (CAD)

2. History and Theory

• History of architecture and its impact on architectural practice
•  The cultural, social and intellectual histories, theories and technologies that influence the design of buildings

• Apply understanding of current architectural debate to produce innovative solutions
• Produce clear, logically argued and original written work relating to architectural culture, theory and design

• How the theories, practices and technologies of the arts influence architectural design and their creative application in design projects

• Apply fine art theories in a creative way that acknowledges their conceptualisation and representation

• Urban design and town planning strategies and regulations
• Process of obtaining planning permission (e.g. drawings, reports, application)

• Comply with relevant town planning policy throughout design and construction phases to obtain planning permission (e.g. submitting planning application)

• The in-depth relationships between users and buildings, between buildings and their environment, and the need to relate buildings and the spaces between them to diverse user needs and scale

• Identify end user needs, local and the social context in which the project is developed
• Lead design development in respect of environmental context and sustainability

• The range of services offered by Architects
• The potential impact of building projects on existing and proposed communities and the related planning legislation
• The context of the Architect and the construction industry, including the Architect’s role in the processes of procurement and building production
• The role of the Architect within the design team and construction industry

• Lead projects or parts of projects, taking into consideration business priorities and practice management
• Deliver services in a responsible manner, prioritising the interests of the client and other stakeholders 
• Problem-solve and use professional judgment to take initiative and make appropriate decisions in situations with multiple constraints

• The client and design team briefing process, forms and terms of appointment
• Methods of investigation and preparation of briefs for the design projects (e.g. review of relevant precedent)

• Critically review precedents relevant to the function, organisation and technological strategy of a design proposals
• Prepare and develop a project brief (e.g. by referring to RIBA Plan of Work)

• Structural, constructional and engineering considerations within building design, such as physical properties and characteristics of building materials, components and systems

• Integrate knowledge of structural principles and construction techniques with building design

• Principles, systems and strategies for environmental comfort and building services including sustainability principles
• Alternative construction materials, processes and techniques that apply to design and construction, including the impact of materials on the environment
• The role of Building Information Modelling (BIM), computational design and other relevant technologies used in the design process

• Evaluate materials, processes and techniques that apply to architectural designs with multiple constraints and building construction, and how to integrate these into practicable design proposals
• Apply various technological methods to building design to provide conditions of comfort and protection against the environment

• Process of controlling building cost
• Approved Documents for building regulations

• Meet client’s brief within the constraints of the imposed budget limitations and building regulations

• Industries, organisations, regulations and procedures involved in translating design concepts into buildings and integrating plans into overall planning

• Interact with statutory authorities (e.g. planning or building control), private bodies (e.g. developers) or individuals to competently deliver projects in a wide variety of sectors and within diverse legislative frameworks

• The nature of professionalism and the responsibilities of Architects to clients, building users, constructors, professionals and the wider society

• Act professionally when working independently and as part of a team, including communicating clearly with all stakeholders

• The obligations of Architects to clients, stakeholders, warranties and third-parties
• Client needs, appropriate communication methods, programming, coordination and competent delivery

• Offer impartial advice on construction related issues, relevant legislation and risks
• Identify and describe client and end user requirements, priorities and objectives

• The statutory legal context within which an Architect must operate and what is required to ensure compliance with legal requirements or standards

• Work with an understanding of the relevant statutory and legal requirements during project development so that the risk of harm to those who build, use and maintain buildings is reduced

• Business priorities, required management processes and risks of running an architecture practice

• Engage in business development and administration including contributing to business strategy development, evaluating resources, planning, implementing and recording projects tasks
• Supervise the work of junior staff including Architectural Assistants

• UK construction and contract law, and construction procurement processes
• The relationship between Architects and other built environment professionals
• Contractual relationships and the obligations of an Architect acting as a contract administrator

• Coordinate and engage in design team interaction
• Resolve construction related challenges and disputes, where appropriate
• Undertake construction inspection responsibilities, including completing site visits and commenting on contractors and sub-contractors work in relation to architectural drawings

Behaviours

An Architect will be expected to…