When embarking on a home building journey, one of the first and most important decisions you'll face is who to trust with your design. Many people use the terms "architect" and "architectural designer" interchangeably, but there are significant differences between these professionals that can impact your project's timeline, budget, and outcome.

At 35 Below, we're often asked about these distinctions and how they affect the building process. This guide will help you understand the key differences and determine which professional is the right fit for your specific project.

Understanding the Professional Distinctions

What is an Architect?

According to the New Zealand Registered Architects Board (NZRAB), architects must complete a professional degree, followed by practical experience and registration examinations. They must maintain a practicing certificate and meet ongoing requirements to use the title "Registered Architect." Key points about architects:

• They hold architectural degrees and are registered with the NZRAB

• They are automatically deemed Licensed Building Practitioners (LBPs) in the design class

• They typically have comprehensive design knowledge and creative vision

• Their services often extend to project management and detailed oversight of the construction phase

What is an Architectural Designer?

Architectural designers typically hold qualifications such as a New Zealand Diploma in Architectural Technology or have developed expertise through practical experience. They offer:

• Technical knowledge in design and detailing

• Working drawings and specifications for builders

• Knowledge of the Building Code and council requirements

• Often, practical construction understanding

• Strong design skills and creative vision

Many architectural designers are also Licensed Building Practitioners (LBPs), which is required for restricted building work on residential projects.

Legal Requirements to Consider

It's important to note that for residential projects containing restricted building work, you must use a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) to do or supervise the design work. This can be either:

• A registered architect (automatically deemed an LBP)

• An architectural designer who is a licensed LBP

• A chartered professional engineer (for specific elements)

Cost Considerations

One of the most significant differences between architects and architectural designers is the cost structure:

Architect Fees

• Typically charge between 10-15% of the total project cost for full services

• Hourly rates often range from $180-$300

• Usually involve higher overall design fees

Architectural Designer Fees

• Often charge 5-8% of the total project cost

• Hourly rates typically range from $120-$180

• Generally more cost-effective for standard residential projects

These are general ranges, and actual fees can vary based on project complexity, scope of services, and individual professionals.

Practical Differences in Approach

There can be some general differences in approach:

Architects

• Often focus on design innovation and unique solutions

• May prioritise distinctive design elements and aesthetics

• Typically have extensive education in design theory and principles

• Often have their own developed style

• Often manage the construction phase

Architectural Designers

• Often bring practical construction knowledge to design decisions

• May focus on cost-effective solutions and buildability

• Frequently work on projects with more defined budget constraints

• Don't typically manage the construction phase

Architectural Designers generally only focus on the design and consent phases, but like us, many will do site visits, address builder queries, review construction details, and help with consent amendments if needed.

It's important to note that these are generalisations, and individual professionals may not conform to these patterns. Many architects are extremely pragmatic, and many architectural designers create innovative, award-winning designs.

Which is right for your project?

Different projects benefit from different types of design professionals:

When an Architect Might Be Best

• High-end, luxury homes with complex design requirements

• Sites with extreme challenges requiring specialised solutions

• Projects where unique design is the primary consideration

• Commercial or civic buildings with complex requirements

When an Architectural Designer Is Ideal

• You want a beautiful, well-designed home without premium fees

• Practical buildability and budget management are priorities

• Straightforward commercial fit-outs

• When practical construction knowledge is particularly valuable

• Minor dwellings and smaller homes

Key Factors in Making Your Decision

When deciding between an architect and an architectural designer for your project, consider these key questions:

1. What is your budget? Be realistic about what you can afford both for design services and construction.

2. How complex is your project? Consider the site challenges, design complexity, and unique requirements.

3. What level of service do you need? Some professionals offer design only, while others manage the entire process through construction.

4. What are your design priorities? Consider whether unique design innovation or practical buildability is more important to you.

5. What is your timeline? Some professionals may have different availability and processes.

   
   

Our Approach

At 35 Below Architectural Design, we combine technical expertise with practical construction knowledge to deliver homes and spaces that are beautiful, functional, and buildable within realistic budgets.

Our founder Adam Baker's background in carpentry gives us valuable insight into how designs translate to real-world construction, allowing us to create solutions that are both aesthetically pleasing and practical to build.

We believe that thoughtful, quality design shouldn't be limited to high-end projects with unlimited budgets. By choosing an architectural designer with strong construction knowledge, you can achieve an excellent design outcome while keeping your project on budget and on schedule.

Start Your Building Journey

If you're planning to build and weighing your design options, we invite you to contact us for an initial consultation. We can discuss your specific project needs and help you determine whether we are the right fit for your project.