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Different types of architects - Who they are and what they do

Posted on 30/03/22

Just as there are a number of design styles to choose from for your building or conversion project, so too are there several different kinds of architects to choose from to deliver your designs. Following extensive qualification studies and work experience, architects often choose to focus on one or more particular area of expertise.

Whether you have a commercial, mixed use residential, healthcare or retail architectural project in mind, we’ve provided a guide to the main different types of architects and what they do, to help your project along:

Commercial Architect

Commercial architects design all forms of non-residential properties; whether that’s offices, retail shops, public buildings, and other business-related premises. Designing a commercial space requires a key understanding of health and safety regulations, as well as the practicalities of many people all needing to use the same space at once. This is becoming increasingly important as these architects are being called upon to alter and adapt existing commercial spaces to make them more Covid-safe for any employees returning to work.

Rather than concentrating on single premises, commercial architects are often called upon to provide designs and plans for a specific area, often determining the look and style for a regeneration or new project with city planners. They will consider the best placement of new houses, commercial premises, public buildings, and spaces, as well as pedestrian footpaths, bridges, and other constructions, to best serve the community.

Conservation Architect

The UK has a plethora of historic and iconic buildings, but over time addressing wear and tear and adapting them for modern use and up to date health and safety is required. Conservation architects specialise in the restoration of old buildings, whilst being considerate of the period in which these were built. Museums, castles and stately homes are just some of the historical premises which will require the attention of a conservation architect. They will use their knowledge to preserve the look and craftmanship of the property, but make sure it can continue to be enjoyed by future generations.

Residential Architect

Residential architects focus on the design of homes, whether for private clients or developers. Residential architects use their creativity to design something unique and special for an independent client or consider practical design solutions to make multi-home developments as attractive and accessible for any buyer as possible. These architects are specialised in turning a client’s dream home into reality, whilst remaining within budget.

Sustainable Architect

Sustainable, green and eco design are becoming incredibly important in construction; whether it’s for a sole residential property or a whole community regeneration project. Sustainable architects specialise in designing environmental-friendly and energy efficient builds, to reduce the impact of the project at construction and over time.

At NWD Architects, we have a genuine interest in delivering projects that are truly sustainable. Our team of architects, assistants, interior designers, and architectural technologists have worked on a diverse range of projects, from the smallest home extension to the alteration, conservation and refurbishment of existing houses, to designing completely new bespoke houses and larger commercial/mixed use and healthcare schemes.

A member of our team is also the only Certified Passivhaus Designer within 30 miles of Chester and the surrounding areas. This standard allows for the design and construction of efficient, low energy, low impact domestic, commercial, educational, or urban buildings and projects.

Whatever your building project or design need, contact us to see how our architects can help deliver a comprehensive design service.

Different types of architects - Who they are and what they do

Commercial Architect

Conservation Architect

Residential Architect

Sustainable Architect

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