Article Index
The work of an architectural technologist
Professional body
All Pages

The architectural technologist is concerned primarily with the technological aspects of building design and construction - from the initial client briefing to completion of the project.

Qualification, together with practical experience, equips the architectural technologist to conduct an investigative study, design and produce a workable solution, research and select materials, provide technical information, negotiate with planning and building authorities and supervise development and construction work.

A detailed knowledge of relevant legislation and building regulations is essential.

The architectural technologist must take a vast number of considerations into account in advance of the initial design stage. The first is to understand the client's requirements. From this a preliminary investigation is carried out which entails gathering, analysing and preparing all the relevant technical information. Architectural technologists consult with other professionals when the need arises for particular specialists to contribute to the project.

Once the technical report has been compiled in a form most appropriate to the design stage, some architectural technologists may prepare the conceptual designs for client presentation themselves while others work with an architect. In all cases, once the design has been accepted, it is the architectural technologist who will prepare the detailed design and specifications, satisfying the legislative and regulatory requirements and solving the technical problems which inevitably arise. In the process, they will often need to introduce new ideas.

Architectural technologists' responsibilities do not end there. They form an essential link in a process which leads from conceptual design all the way through to construction, making a strong contribution to the building work itself by monitoring schedules, answering problems, issuing progress reports to everyone involved, making sure the specified materials are being used and carrying out regular inspections.

What are the career prospects?

Most qualified architectural technologists work in private practice and there is every opportunity to become a partner or director for those with the right levels of commitment, ability and determination. Practices may be headed by architectural technologists, architects or other professionals in the construction industry.

Many architectural technologists set up on their own or with others after becoming qualified and gaining enough experience from working in a private practice. In this way new practices are formed, creating further employment opportunities.

Career openings for architectural technologists also exist with central government, local authorities, property developers, building contractors, housing associations, banks and commercial and manufacturing companies.