Architect vs Architectural Technologist in Ireland — Who Can Sign Off What Under BCAR
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Both architects and architectural technologists in Ireland produce buildable designs. Architects have an RIAI-recognised qualification and can take all BCAR roles (Design Certifier, Assigned Certifier). Technologists have a CIAT (Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists) qualification and can prepare planning drawings and most design work, but cannot take some BCAR roles. Fees: architects 8–12% of build cost; technologists 5–8%. Choose an architect for complex sites (BCAR role, heritage, rural, sensitive design); a technologist for simple sites (urban infill, standard form, low BER target). For most self-builders, the choice is which architect, not architect vs technologist — the BCAR sign-off role is the deciding factor.
TL;DR
Architects: RIAI qualification, can take all BCAR roles (Design Certifier, Assigned Certifier). Fees 8–12% of build cost.
Architectural technologists: CIAT qualification, can prepare planning drawings and design work, but cannot take some BCAR roles. Fees 5–8% of build cost.
Both produce a buildable design. Choose an architect for complex sites (BCAR role, heritage, rural); a technologist for simple sites (urban infill, standard form).
When this matters most
You're choosing between an architect and an architectural technologist.
When this doesn't apply
You've already appointed a designer.
Frequently asked questions
Can an architectural technologist sign off BCAR in Ireland?
Partially. Technologists can prepare planning drawings and most design work, but cannot take all BCAR roles. An RIAI architect or registered building surveyor can take the Assigned Certifier role.
How much does an architectural technologist charge?
5–8% of build cost for full service. €10,000–€25,000 for a 150–200 m² house. Lower than an RIAI architect (8–12%).
What is the difference between an architect and a technologist?
Architects have an RIAI-recognised qualification and can take all BCAR roles. Technologists have a CIAT qualification, can prepare planning drawings and most design work, but cannot take some BCAR roles.
Sources
Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland. https://www.riai.ie/
Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) Ireland. https://www.ciat.org.uk/
Frequently asked questions
Can an architectural technologist sign off BCAR in Ireland?
Partially. Technologists can prepare planning drawings and most design work, but cannot take all BCAR roles. An RIAI architect or registered building surveyor can take the Assigned Certifier role.
How much does an architectural technologist charge?
5–8% of build cost for full service. €10,000–€25,000 for a 150–200 m² house. Lower than an RIAI architect (8–12%).
What is the difference between an architect and a technologist?
Architects have an RIAI-recognised qualification and can take all BCAR roles. Technologists have a CIAT qualification, can prepare planning drawings and most design work, but cannot take some BCAR roles.