An Introduction to Professional Services in Architecture & Historic Building Conservation

The role of the architect probably orginated in ancient Egypt and the word 'architect' comes from the Greek 'Arkhitekton' meaning 'chief builder'. This description endured through to the master masons who built the medieval cathedrals but with the Renaissance the Architect became an artist and 'universal man', one stage removed from the builders.

For centuries building traditions altered very little but with the industrial revolution building technology changed, the foundations of Modern Architecture were laid and architecture became a profession.  The Architect's responsibility for the design of the Client's building became clearly separated from the building contract which the architect administers.

As technology continues to change at an ever increasing rate, the boundaries of architecture have blurred and now encompass activities as diverse as computer  graphics, ecological design and historic building conservation.

Much  architectural work still follows the traditional process which the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) describes in the following work stages.

Inception: The architect establishes the clients' requirements (the brief)

Feasibility studies

Outline proposals and scheme design: The architect develops a design, including plans, appearance and materials.  Planning applications are submitted at this stage.
Detail design: The architect prepares drawings showing principes of construction.  Building Regulations applications are submitted.
Production Information: The architect produces drawings and documentation for the builder to work from.

Tenders and operations on site.

Architects offer a range of services to suit different requirements.  This may include  individual work stages or specific services such as surveys or planning appeals.  There are also various forms of building procurement, such as 'design and build' where the builder employs the architect for all or part of  the  design process.

Work to historic buildings may consist of general repairs, specialist conservation work, alterations and extensions, conversion of old buildings to new uses and the design of new buildings in an historic context.

Architectural conservation has its own philosophy which was first set down by the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB) in 1878. These priciples were subsequently developed by Conservation bodies such as English Heritage and embodied in legislation.  Ancient Monuments, listed buildings and conservation areas all have statutory protection and work affecting them requires formal approval.

While innovation and design flair are valued in mainstream architecture, the architect often has to curb these instincts  in conservation work, where the object is to preserve the character of the historic building and avoid destruction of historic fabric.  This type of work should only be undertaken by architects with qualifications and experience in architectural conservation.

Parkes Lees Architects Ltd is an RIBA registered practice with expertise in all the services desribed above in architecture and historic building conservation.