ABSTRACT
The title 'architect' is protected by law and only designers who have completed a rigorous seven-year full-time course are allowed to use it. People who style themselves as 'architectural consultants' and 'architectural designers' are not architects and do not necessarily have any formal qualifications or training. Architects are known for their ability to design, but also are trained in practical construction methods, project management and contract law. Most of their time is actually spent designing construction details, sending out tender packages, running projects on site, and dealing with contractors on their client's behalf. Some building contractors offer house design services by employing their own designers. Some designers can do their own structural calculations but more often than not it is cheaper and more efficient to use a specialist for this work. The magazines and websites dedicated to home alterations are filled with illustrations and case studies of projects, which usually give the name and contact details of the designers.
