What is the difference between a Draftsperson (Architectural), an Architect and a Building Designer?

Without a doubt the most common question we are asked – and certainly one of the most deliberated within the Victorian Construction industry. The problem is, on the surface, these three job titles can seem incredibly similar and yet, the cost for their services can vary significantly.

Due to various preconceptions and stereotypes, this question has a tendency to be answered with a certain amount of bias, depending on what profession that individual identifies with. A quick google search of this topic will reveal countless (and sometimes nasty) online debates.

Design21Architure encompasses a Registered Building Designer, Architecture graduates, and a Junior Draftsperson. We have engaged in various discussions about this topic and decided it best to not take sides in this dispute, but rather to identify how we see the essential differences between the vocations:

A Draftsperson, generally speaking, are strictly specialists in documentation (drawing plans, elevations, sections etc.), and typically aren’t involved in design work. Traditionally, a Draftsperson would be hired by an architect to complete the working drawings while an Architect Designs and Consults. An Advanced Diploma of Building Design (Architectural) is required to begin working at a firm.

In contrast, while an Architect can participate in all functions of a Draftsperson, they are generally someone who makes informed design decisions on buildings – dealing with form and function. They require a University Degree, numerous years of experience and completion of a Licensing Exam to earn the title of Architect. In the modern era an Architect is generally more associated with more complex, large scale commercial side of Construction.

ABuilding Designer can be considered a middle ground between a Draftsperson and an Architect. This profession has evolved from the Draftsperson occupation to include the design and consultation aspects undertaken by Architects. The same Diploma is required as a Draftsperson; however, an additional Licensing Exam is required to become a registered Building Designer. A Building Designer engages in all aspects of a Draftsperson, is deeply rooted in construction knowledge while also actively participating in the Design aspects like that of an Architect.

In summary: