Changing roles of Architects, Designers, Engineers and Contractors.

Busted

Violation of Architectural Licensing Laws

This is a copy of a post I made on Architectural Record's website. The issue is that Mr. Gideo of The Backyard Architect a company that design builds backyard improvements pools, outdoor fireplaces, decks, patios and landscaping. As an architectural graduate and having approval to sit for the Architectural Registration Exam (ARE), I understand the significance of the title of Architect. In this commentary, I also put back the veil on the trials and tribulations of obtaining an architectural license.

Clouding the Traditional Roles
Architecture, engineering and construction (AEC) are closely allied fields. Mr. Gideo's use of the title of "Architect" in his company, The Backyard Architect," is problematic. The lines between AEC disciplines are eroding. AE firms, design build firms and heaven forbid engineering and construction ventures. The industry is getting sensitive about their individual turf. Almost gone are the days when cooperating with each other would foster respect, exchange of knowledge, checks and balances between fields.
Professional vs. Personal Rights
Mr. Gideo's real transgression is not understanding that if you join wood together, stack stones and draw a plan it is design build. The need to protect the public from misunderstanding his use of a licensed professional term Architect is higher than his right to call the company what he wants. If in the future business is good and he designs a 3 story non-exempt home addition not only is the title Architect a violation of the professional license statute but in actual architectural practice as well. Ignoring the State Architectural Boards notice to cease and desist using the title of Architect do justify the heavy fines.
Inside the Architects OfficeThe Intern Development Program (IDP) and the high cost of testing for the Architectural Registration Exam (ARE) are real failures. We should have more licensed architects working on projects. Firms seem afraid that their professional staff will become tomorrow's competition. Thus, they make little investment, even in IDP. This young architect is someone I can turn over the keys to, instead of closing up shop when senior staff retires. Better to have a nest egg and motivated professionals working for you than not.

An architect is not needed for all projects. A owner, builder or designer may design 1,2,3 & sometimes 4 unit homes or multifamily projects. Owners hiring someone to design their home should pick the best qualified candidate. A commercial architect may design one or two homes a year. A residential architect or designer works on homes on a day to day basis. Builders are not as specialized and juggle the responsibility of the job site and design.