FAQ

What’s the difference between a architectural technologist and an architect?

Generally speaking a architectural technologist is qualified to offer a design service from inception all the way through to handover but will than likely have a more in depth knowledge of how the building goes together.

“Chartered Architectural Technologists, (someone who holds the designation MCIAT or FCIAT), are qualified to offer design services and manage projects from inception to completion. They lead the technological design of a project; forming the link between concept, innovation and realisation” (CIAT, 2024).

Meanwhile an architect is also qualified to offer design services from inception through to hand over, but broadly speaking they are more likely to be ‘design led’ and possibly more expressive and elaborate in their designs.

We think the two websites below sum it up quite nicely:

https://architecturaltechnology.com/.../what-is-a...

https://www.localarchitectsdirect.co.uk/architect...

Why use a technologist or architect? There are plenty of ‘designers’ out there…

There are plenty of people out there offering services for drawings, planning etc, calling themselves architectural designers, CAD technicians, architectural design services. But the question is, do they have the relevant experience? Do they have the qualifications? Do they have indemnity insurance?

Whereas a Chartered Architectural Technologist and Chartered Architect have proven their competence, qualifications and insurance status to their respective professional bodies CIAT and RIBA. Therefore you can rest assured these professionals have the experience, competence and knowledge to guide you through your project.

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What is permitted development?

Permitted development rights allow householders to improve and extend their homes without the need to apply for planning permission. These generally cover more minor and smaller projects, for example a 3 meter rear single storey extension would be considered permitted development and wouldn’t need planning permission (exemptions apply].

You can find more information here: Planning Permission - Extensions - Planning Portal

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I don’t need planning but I still want drawings?

That’s fine, this happens quite often especially when the builder wants a drawing to work from. We can produce a pack of drawings suitable for construction to ensure everyone understands exactly what you’re asking for.

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Can you tell me steel sizes?

In short, no. No architect or architectural technologist should provide steel sizes for any project, regardless of their experience with similar projects.

This is not only a matter of qualifications but also an insurance issue. A technologist's or architect's insurance will not cover items that fall under a structural engineer's specialization.

Only an engineer can provide an accurate steel size and specification. In some rare cases, a building control officer may be able to assist.

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What areas do you cover?

Currently we cover the West Midlands; Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Coventry, Worcestershire, Stratford-upon-Avon, Sutton Coldfield, Leamington, Stourbridge to name a few. However project and circumstances dependant we would consider projects from further afield.

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Do you guarantee planning permission?

No architecture or planning company should guarantee planning permission.

The service you pay for includes experience with the local authority, knowledge of local precedents, bespoke designs, and technical expertise – all of which influence planning permission decisions.

A skilled Technologist or Architect can consider all these factors and create a design that is highly likely to be approved by the local authority, but there are no guarantees.

What does planning permission involve? And how long does It take?

Planning permission involves submitting information about your proposed build to your local authority so they can grant you permission to start construction. This process ensures that your project is suitable for the surroundings. You’ll need to provide:

• A quality design that enhances the plot or streetscape

• Consideration of how the build may affect your neighbours

• A thorough understanding of any planning policies affecting your area

By meeting these criteria, you can demonstrate to the planning officer that your proposed build adheres to their rules, policies, and guidelines. Once they approve, you can begin construction.

Typically, obtaining planning permission takes a minimum of 8 weeks from submission to decision, although more and more they are taking 13 weeks.