An architect is a design professional whose title is protected by law under the Architects Act 1997. In the UK, only individuals registered with the Architects Registration Board (ARB) may call themselves an architect - using the title without registration is a criminal offence. Registration requires Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3 qualifications (typically seven years of education and professional practice) plus two years of professional experience. Voluntary membership of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) indicates an additional commitment to professional standards, ethics and continuing development. An architect can lead the entire design and delivery process for a building project - from initial feasibility through planning permission, Building Regulations and contract administration on site.
What they do
- Lead the design process from initial brief and feasibility through to completion
- Prepare planning drawings and manage planning applications
- Apply for listed building consent and works in conservation areas
- Produce Building Regulations drawings and manage approval
- Prepare tender documents and administer building contracts
- Inspect work on site and issue certificates under the building contract
- Manage the design team including structural engineers and other consultants
- Advise on procurement route and contractor selection
- Produce design and access statements for complex planning applications
When you need one
An architect adds most value on projects where design quality matters, where planning consent is complex, or where you need someone to manage the whole delivery process on your behalf.
Typical costs (UK, 2025)
| Job type | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Feasibility study | £500 - £1,500 |
| Planning drawings only | £1,500 - £5,000 |
| Full RIBA stages service | 8-15% of build cost |
| Listed building application | £2,000 - £6,000+ |
| Extension design + planning | £2,000 - £5,000 |
| Hourly rate | £80 - £150 / hr |
Architect fees vary enormously by project size, complexity, location and the scope of service. A planning-only service is significantly cheaper than a full contract administration service. Always agree the scope in detail - and in writing - before work starts.
Qualifications to look for
Registration with the ARB is a legal requirement to use the title 'architect' in the UK. It requires Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3 qualifications (typically seven years) plus two years of professional experience and a professional practice examination. Verify registration at arb.org.uk - a basic search is free and takes under a minute.
RIBA membership is voluntary but indicates commitment to professional standards, ethics and continuing professional development. RIBA Chartered Practices must employ at least one RIBA member and follow a quality management framework. The RIBA 'Find an Architect' directory at architecture.com is a useful starting point.
Most architects structure their services using RIBA Plan of Work stages (0-6). Understanding which stages you are commissioning avoids later disputes about scope. For domestic projects, clients often commission Stages 1-3 (feasibility through planning) as a first phase, then extend to full delivery.
How to find a reputable architect
Related Calculators
Extension Cost Calculator Loft Conversion Cost Calculator Roof Pitch and Rafter CalculatorFrequently asked questions
Is 'architect' a protected title in the UK?
Yes. 'Architect' is a protected title in the UK under the Architects Act 1997. Only individuals registered with the Architects Registration Board (ARB) can legally call themselves an architect. Using the title without registration is a criminal offence carrying a fine. Always verify registration at arb.org.uk before appointing anyone calling themselves an architect - the search takes 30 seconds.
Do I need an architect for a planning application?
Not legally - anyone can submit a planning application, and architectural technologists or architectural designers can prepare the drawings. However, for complex applications, listed buildings, conservation areas or design-sensitive schemes, an architect's design skills and planning knowledge significantly improve the chances of approval. Planning officers are familiar with well-prepared applications from experienced architects and often engage more constructively with them.
What is the difference between an architect and an architectural technologist?
Architects are ARB registered and can lead the full design process from initial concept through planning, Building Regulations and construction on site. Architectural technologists (MCIAT) specialise in the technical design and specification of buildings and are regulated by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists. Both can prepare planning drawings and Building Regulations packages. An architect typically adds more value on complex, design-led or listed building projects; a technologist is often more cost-effective for technically straightforward domestic projects.