Architects

Who is an Architect? [ back to top ]

An architect is a person trained and experienced in the design of buildings and the coordination and supervision of all aspects of the construction of buildings.

An architect must be creative and practical, and have an understanding of structure, materials, aesthetics, costs, regulations, the construction industry and the personal tastes and needs of a client.

The architect must be able to negotiate through these sometimes conflicting elements to provide a creative solution to a brief, and to bring the solution from idea to reality.

It is the juggling of these various elements that gives the profession its interest and excitement. The wide range of activities in the practice of architecture allows individuals to specialise in the areas where they have the most skill and expertise, but all architects must be proficient in all areas of the profession.

What is the difference between an Architect and other
designers and managers within the construction industry? [ back to top ]

The main difference between an architect and other jobs such as project managers, construction managers, interior designers etc is that architects are professionals whose standard and code of conduct and ethics are regulated by law, like doctors, dentists, lawyers and engineers.

The act regulating architects is called the "Architects Act".This act ensures that architects not only look after the interests of their clients, but also look after the public interest. They must also ensure that their service is disinterested - ie. they must have no personal interest in the outcome of their services.The law also protects the use of the word "Architect" and its derivatives.

What is the role of the Architect? [ back to top ]

The role of the architect has changed over the centuries, from being head builder to becoming the leader of a team of consultants involved in the process of designing a building, and ensuring it is constructed in accordance with the design.

An Architect may be the partner of a firm, a sole practitioner, an employee in an architectural practice, an Architect in the public service or an academic at an institution.

How do I become an Architect? [ back to top ]

In order to qualify for registration in Singapore you must study for an architectural degree at a university approved by the Board of Architects (BOA). For more info, please visit BOA website at http://www.boa.gov.sg/education.html

Architecture is a profession open to both men and women. In recent years the proportion of women graduating as architects has become approximately 50%.

Courses in architecture generally require a high standard of academic ability. In addition to reasonable proficiency in mathematics and science,an interest in artistic fields such as drawing and model making can be a great help.

A capacity for problem solving and lateral thinking is something that will be important, but the most vital ingredients of all are enthusiasm and a love of architecture. For more info on the courses offered at NUS - Department of Architecture, please visit http://www.arch.nus.edu.sg/courses.html.

A bachelor of Architecture degree is typically a 6 year course at a university. Some courses include a year working out in the profession for practical experience.

Upon completion of the degree, it is necessary to gain at least two years experience working in an architect's office under the direction and supervision of a registered architect before a person can apply for registration as an architect.

When do I need an Architect? [ back to top ]

You need to engage an Architect and / or Professional Engineer (known as a Qualified Person or QP) for any construction work in Singapore requiring submission to the authorities governing construction in Singapore.

Nearly all construction work will require the services of a Qualified Person. If you are intending to do any construction work in Singapore, you should contact the URA and BCA to find out whether you need to engage a professional to act on your behalf.

How do I select an Architect? [ back to top ]

The professional team selected by the client will be responsible for the success of a project, including the financial, functional, design quality, cost and time factors. As the lead consultant of the team, selection of the architect is one of the most important decisions made by the client for the development project.

The SIA recommends the evaluation of competing architectural firms in a fair and efficient manner. Experience and credentials should be the basis for making a decision. If a design competition is considered to be a necessary part of the decision process, it should be conducted in accordance with the SIA guidelines for competitions.

Please contact SIA info@sia.org.sgfor more information on holding a design competition.

What are the employment opportunities for architects? [ back to top ]

Although the experience of architectural training with its intellectual challenge and personal and social development will make it intrinsically rewarding, you may still want to know if its worth the investment of your time and energy.

The answer is yes. Given the buoyant building industry and promise of economic growth in the Asia-Pacific region, an architectural graduate should have no difficulty getting a job.

No doubt, the building industry is especially sensitive to the state of the economy and can be affected by its cycles. But architecture as a career should be seen as a long term commitment; the long term prospects fully justify the investment of yourself in the process of training.

The Architects Act [ back to top ]

The Architects Act, 1976 (Act 14 of 1976) controls the architectural profession in Singapore. The aim of the act is to maintain professional standards of architects in order to protect the public. This protection is afforded through a Register of Architects, which lists all persons and corporations who satisfy the requirements.

The Singapore Architects and the region [ back to top ]

Singapore architects are uniquely positioned to provide quality services to the region. Many of the countries surrounding Singapore are embarking on large scale projects including housing, commercial, office, hotel and resorts as well as making huge investments in infrastructure.

Singapore's own rapid development has produced a professional body with first hand experience in the design and construction of mega projects, and with the special problems of producing high quality products in a fast moving and rapidly changing environment. The location of Singapore, enhanced by its excellent air connections to the region, means Singapore consultants can be actively and effectively involved throughout the design and construction process of an overseas development.

The Singapore Government is encouraging architects to export their services.The APPECS (Attachment of Public Sector Professionals for Export of Construction Services) is a scheme which allows private firms to engage public sector professionals on a short term basis for overseas projects. This allows private firms to bid for large and complex overseas jobs such as airports and industrial parks with the backup of the specialised expertise of the public sector.