A client-centred service
A chartered architect will identify the clients’ needs and aspirations and turn them into reality. The design is the product of a clients’ ambition, combined with an architects’ specialist skill, knowledge and experience. The best designs are a collaboration between client and architect, with the architect complimenting the knowledge of the client.
Wealth of Experience
Architects can guide you through the complex procedures of planning permission and building regulations through to construction completion. As architects registered with ARB and chartered members of RIAS, all ECAN members are obliged to carry professional indemnity insurance and adhere to the professional code of conduct, all ECAN members work with the responsibility that the title and chartership carries.
Value for money
Good design will add value through effective use of space, and careful selection of materials and finishes will achieve a good return for the investment made. Consideration of energy efficiency, low running and maintenance costs and environmental sensitivity can bring extra benefits to your project, long term savings through inherent built-in value.
Imagination
Whether you are looking for a traditional or innovative approach, bold design or understatement, an architect can help you. Anyone can alter a building, an architect will maximise its potential with flair, imagination, care and sensitivity. A building project of any scale can be daunting, and a challenge for those less familiar with the process. A chartered architect will navigate the process with you.
Definition of an architect
When you use a chartered architect, you are employing someone who has undertaken at least seven years of professional training, the longest in the building industry. Anyone styling themselves ‘building consultant’, ‘architectural designer’ or ‘plan drawer’ is unlikely to be an architect and does not have comparable skills or knowledge.
Before a person can be called an architect, they will have completed professional training which permits entry to the list of UK Architects held by the Architects’ Registration Board (ARB), for the use of the title ‘architect’. Thereafter, application can be made to RIBA and or RIAS to become chartered. All ECAN members must be chartered members of Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland (RIAS).
A chartered architect is obliged to uphold the reputation of the architectural profession and fellow professionals; to carry out work on behalf of clients honourably, independently and efficiently; and to declare any conflict of interest with their status as an independent consultant architect.
