Whether you’re embarking on a personal domestic project, like an extension, at your home or working for a large-scale construction company that is regularly building new structures, there is always a wide range of specialist professionals who work on a project.
Perhaps two of the most important are architects and structural engineers.
While it’s true that both jobs play a crucial role in the construction process, sometimes the two terms are used interchangeably. In fact, both architects and structural engineers perform specialist tasks and while there is some overlap, there are also some key distinctions. It’s important to understand the key differences between what an architect does and the role a structural engineer plays.
This is so you know exactly what is needed for your next project. Often, both architects and structural engineers will be required, but there are also occasions when only one or the other will be necessary.
In this article, the team here at IKT Consulting will answer the question ‘what is the difference between an architect and a structural engineer?’
Read on to find out more.
What is an architect?
First, let’s establish what an architect actually is.
In the most simple terms, an architect is primarily focused on the aesthetics of a project. Whether a new structure is being built or renovations are being made to an existing one, architects design spaces to achieve a desired look.
They will design, plan and oversee construction to ensure the results are as good as they can be.
What do architects do?
As mentioned above, architects are primarily interested in the appearance of buildings and structures. With this in mind, they will be responsible for creating designs, drawing up blueprints and sketching pictures of what the end result will look like. As well as this, they may also create 3D models of future buildings to give everyone working on the project a clear idea of what the final outcome should be.
They’re usually among the very first professionals who are brought on board a new project, and usually, their drawings and renderings will be used in the planning permission process.
Once planning permission has been granted, it’s time for these drawings to become a reality. In order to do this, architects will create technical drawings that will involve information regarding building regulations. This step is imperative in every construction project as it will provide key, practical information that will ensure every new structure is safe. In fact, these technical drawings are a legal requirement and must be provided.
With this in mind, all architects need to be knowledgeable and aware of all of the relevant laws and regulations that are related to construction. This is to ensure the project is fully compliant with all health and safety rules and legislation.
When considering all of the above, it’s clear that it is a common misconception that architects are simply creative minds who are only there to create drawings and sketches of a future structure.
In fact, once the project itself actually gets underway, architects will oversee the construction to ensure everything is progressing as it should be. They may also help overcome any issues or hurdles that occur during the build.
To summarise, some of the key roles that architects perform include:
- Designing architectural drawings and plans
- Creating 3D models
- Assisting with planning submissions
- Ensuring building regulations are met and adhered to
- Surveying sites
- Conducting regular site visits
- Helping with appointing contractors
- Overseeing the building process
What is a structural engineer?
Now, let’s turn our attention to structural engineers.
Structural engineering is a type of civil engineering, and while architects perform a variety of different toles, a structural engineer tends to be a lot more specialist.
The primary role of a structural engineer is to ensure the overall safety of a project. Whether a brand-new building is being built from scratch or significant repairs or renovations are being made to an existing one, the main job of a structural engineer is to make sure a building is structurally sound, safe for occupants and, in short, is not going to collapse,
What do structural engineers do?
As mentioned above, the main focus of a structural engineer is to make sure that a structure is safe and is not going to collapse. In order to achieve this goal, they will assess plans to ensure that the structure can withstand heavy loads, resist forces and cope with the environmental conditions of the location in which it is being built. They will create drawings that demonstrate how structures need to be built to achieve this, while also researching and recommending the types of materials that need to be used.
It’s not just new buildings where structural engineers are required, if a property is undergoing renovations such as removing chimney breasts, adding a rear extension or conducting a loft conversion, structural engineers will need to be consulted.
Structural engineers will focus a lot of their attention on structural elements like support beams, frames and joints that are used to keep a building upright and minimise the risk of collapse. Their expertise may also be consulted when it comes to the likes of electrical systems, sewage works, fire suppression and more.
Just like with architects, it is necessary for all structural engineers to be fully knowledgeable and au fait with the latest building codes and regulations.
Some of the tasks that structural engineers regularly perform include:
- Creating reports, drawings and building designs
- Structural calculations
- Selecting the appropriate building materials
- Inspecting work to ensure it meets the required standard
- Offering technical expertise
- Ensuring all building regulations are met and adhered to
- Helping to obtain various planning permissions
What is the difference between an architect and structural engineer?
It’s clear to see how there can be an overlap between architects and structural engineers, but they play distinct roles in the design and construction of buildings. While they collaborate closely, their responsibilities and focuses differ.
Let’s take a look at some of the main differences between architects and structural engineers.
- Scope of work - Architects primarily focus on the overall design and aesthetics of a building. They will consider functionality, space utilisation, appearance and the overall vision and design features of the project. These professionals are concerned with the look and feel of the structure and will consider both the interior and exterior design. In contrast, structural engineers concentrate on the structural integrity and overall stability of the building. They will analyse and design the framework that supports the building, ensuring it can withstand various loads, including gravity, wind and seismic forces.
- Education and training - Both roles require a thorough knowledge of the latest building regulations and legislation, but architects will typically hold a degree in architecture and undergo training that places an emphasis on design principles, spatial relationships and aesthetics. They will often use software and 3D modelling tools for design purposes. Usually, structural engineers will have a degree or equivalent qualification in civil or structural engineering. Their education focuses on structural analysis, material properties and the application of engineering principles to ensure the safety and stability of structures.
- Design vs analysis - Architects focus on design and the overall concept of a building, considering factors such as layout, lighting, materials and aesthetics. They work to create a functional and visually pleasing space. Whereas structural engineers will take the time to analyse the forces and loads that a structure will experience, and they will design the framework and support systems to ensure the building is safe and stable. They will calculate stresses and strains on materials to prevent structural failure.
- Construction oversight - In terms of the construction process, architects are often involved in overseeing it to ensure that the design is correctly implemented. They work closely with contractors and other professionals to address design-related issues during the process. Structural engineers may be involved in construction oversight, especially regarding structural elements. They ensure that the construction follows the structural plans and specifications, making adjustments if necessary.
Do I need an architect or structural engineer?
Whether you need an architect, structural engineer or both will greatly depend on the specifics of your unique project.
Despite having some crossover and the fact they often work together mutually, it’s important to recognise the specialist skills and roles that both bring to a project as outlined in this article.
With this in mind, if you’re conducting large-scale construction work it is highly likely that you will need to employ the services of both an architect and a structural engineer.
Often, architects and structural engineers will have preferred partners, so if you do need both then you may be able to hire both at the same time.
If you’re only doing minor renovations, then a structural engineer alone should suffice. This is because they can help to ensure the stability of the project and also provide some design advice.
At IKT Consulting, we offer a wide range of structural engineering services for homeowners, landlords, architects, developers and more, assisting with both domestic and commercial projects across Nottingham and beyond. To find out more about our services and to get a free quote, contact our team of experts today.
