Any building or remodeling project involves a team of professionals. Depending on the size and complexity of the project, the team can range from just a single architect and contractor to a host of architects, engineers and construction project managers, but the basic requirements are the same: properly trained and experienced professionals working in concert via good communication and mutual respect.
Even when the job is relatively small, it can be confusing for clients to figure out who does what on a building or remodeling project, and while every team works a little differently, it can be helpful to understand basic roles and responsibilities that generally apply across projects.
Architect
The architect is the leader of the design team. She is responsible for working directly with the client to design and plan all the structural elements of the construction, interior and exterior. When necessary, she may consult or work with other design professionals to create a plan to meet the client’s needs.
She often also acts as the project manager, making sure the permitting process goes smoothly and overseeing work during the construction phase. She is the conduit between other team members, such as contractors and engineers, and the client, ensuring any questions are communicated appropriately, problems addressed promptly, and solutions offered appropriately.
Architects are extensively trained in all aspects of structural design, with several years of formal architecture education followed by practical training and apprenticeship.
Architects must pass a rigorous, seven-part exam and be licensed by the state(s) in which they practice.
Drafter
A drafter (formerly called draftsmen or draughtsmen) creates drawings and plans from the architect’s design. These are detailed technical renderings of the project that the contractors use to build structures and systems. These plans are also submitted to the city for any necessary permitting prior to the start of construction.
The drafter is trained to use both conventional tools and specialized computer-aided design (CAD) software to produce 2- and 3-dimensional drawings and documentation for a building or remodeling project.
Many drafters are educated in CAD, structural design concepts and drawing through associate’s or bachelor’s programs or in technical colleges. Some are certified by the American Design Drafting Association.
An architect may do her own drafting for a project or she may choose to use a professional drafter.
Engineer
Some building or remodeling projects may require additional expertise in mechanical, electrical, geological or other sciences. Engineers specially educated and trained in these fields may be brought in at the design stage, or the architect may recommend bringing in an engineer if an unforeseen issue arises during construction.
With the architect, the engineer is responsible for ensuring the safety and appropriate functioning of structures and systems in a construction project. They may produce specialized plans and schematics for contractors to follow in addition to the general project plans.
Most engineers have a bachelor’s degree in their field, and many have master’s degrees. All engineers offering services to the public must be licensed in the state(s) in which they practice
Interior Designer
An interior designer creates beautiful and functional indoor spaces, focusing on spatial and decorative elements of a building or remodeling project.
Some interior designers have associate’s or bachelor’s degrees in design and may be trained to use CAD software. Some states require certification or licensing for professional interior designers. (California does not, although individuals who use the title “certified interior designer” must pass an exam set by the National Council for Interior Design Qualification.)
Landscape Architect
Landscape architects design and plan outdoor spaces. They are educated and trained in design, sustainable land use, plants, soil, and water and drainage management to create safe, functional and beautiful outdoor environments for homes, businesses, parks, cities and other organizations.
Most landscape architects have an accredited degree (some have bachelor’s or master’s degrees in landscape architecture) and complete practical apprenticeships under other licensed landscape architects. All states require licensing for landscape architects, which requires them to pass the Landscape Architect Registration Examination (LARE).
General Contractor
A general contractor is responsible for executing the architect’s plans for a building or remodeling project. He or she provides the labor and equipment and acquires the materials for construction. He or she may get construction permits and hire subcontractors as necessary for the job.
There are no specific educational requirements for general contractors, and licensing requirements vary by state – in California, for example, general contractors need to be licensed to work on any building or remodeling project estimated to exceed $500. Licensed contractors must pass an exam set by a state contractors’ board
Subcontractor
Some building or remodeling projects require the special expertise of a subcontractor; for example, a roofing contractor, a tile specialist or an electrician.
Subcontractors may be recommended and supervised by the architect, general contractor or landscape architect as needed.
Because there are so many types of subcontractors, it’s impossible to generalize about education and licensing requirements, but common sense applies. You, your contractor or your architect should ensure any subcontractor working on your project has the appropriate credentials.