Architectural assistant

A range of design processes and techniques such as hand-sketched drawings and diagrams; use of appropriate tools and materials to create physical building models of varying scale and complexity to explore and develop design ideas and for use in client presentations

History of architecture and its impact on architectural practice

Human sciences that affect the design of buildings and spaces (e.g. use of ergonomics)

Arts that relate to theoretical concepts of architecture (e.g. the use of colour and sound in creating atmosphere in spaces)

Urban design, town planning strategies

Importance of architecture for an occupant or user of a space

Impact of architectural design on the environment and wider community

The duties and responsibilities of Architectural Assistants to clients, building users, contractors, co-professionals and the wider society

The role of the Architect within the design team and construction industry

The potential impact of building projects on existing and proposed communities

The different methods of investigating and preparing a project brief (e.g. critical review of precedents relevant to the function, organisation and technological strategy of design proposals)

The structural and engineering considerations within building design

Strategies for building services, sustainable design and their integration in a coherent design project

Strategies for building construction (e.g. offsite fabrication)

Alternative materials, processes and techniques that apply to architectural design and building construction, including the impact of materials on the environment throughout material’s lifespan (e.g. the difference between how bricks or concrete are manufactured, used and recycled)

Technologies that influence the design of buildings (e.g. façade systems)

The role of BIM and other relevant technologies used in the design process

The process of controlling building costs (e.g. collaboration with Quantity Surveyors)

Approved Documents for Building Regulations

UK legislation and health and safety requirements

The range of industries, organisations, regulations and procedures involved in translating design concepts into buildings

The timeline of project development and delivery (e.g. RIBA Plan of Work)

Generate architectural design proposals of diverse scales and type, including conducting feasibility studies

Draft and edit drawings and 3D models (plans, sections, elevations, and details) using relevant software, including CAD, to enable co-ordination with other professional’s input

Produce and coordinate design information with the design team (e.g. engineering, landscaping and interior design)

Critically analyse architectural culture, theory and design to present a personal viewpoint within a structured argument

Creatively apply theories, practices and technologies of the arts that influence architectural design

Produce necessary drawings and documents that comply with national and local planning policy

Identify user needs and the local context in which the project is developed

Develop the design of projects of varying scales in respect of environmental context and sustainability

Deliver services under the supervision of an Architect or a project leader, prioritising the interests of the client and other stakeholders

Problem solve and use professional judgement to take initiative and make appropriate contributions to decision making

Research and investigate relevant information (e.g. site analysis, previous architectural projects) to support project development to ensure all client and regulatory requirements are met

Investigate, critically appraise and select alternative structural, constructional and material systems relevant to architectural design

Integrate structural, construction and engineering strategies with the overall design

Support an Architect or a project leader with construction inspections to ensure projects are built in accordance with contractual drawings

Evaluate materials, processes and techniques that apply to architectural designs and building construction, and where practicable integrate alternative materials, processes and techniques into design proposals

Apply different technological methods to building design to provide conditions of comfort and protection against the environment

Meet client’s brief within the constraints of the imposed budget limitations

Meet client’s brief within the constraints of the building regulations

Interact with statutory authorities or individuals to support delivery of projects in a wide variety of sectors and within diverse legislative frameworks

Be mindful of relevant professional codes of conduct (e.g. ARB and RIBA)

Be honest and act with integrity

Strive to communicate effectively and professionally when working independently and as part of a team

Be conscious of an Architect’s obligation to their client, society and the profession

Take into account their competence and professional experience, to ensure they are unlikely to bring the profession into disrepute

Commit to identifying their own individual professional development needs, including keeping up to date with changing design trends