Someone sketching grand designs and overseeing construction, right?
Right… Kind of. These things do occur, but there are various pieces to the puzzle when it comes to construction projects, and Architectural Technologists are just one.
Architectural Techno-what, you say? This might be a role that you’ve never heard of, but Architectural Technologists (or ATs) are a crucial part of any architecture practice, large or small, and focus on the technical side of design, ensuring that buildings aren’t just visually appealing but also structurally sound, functional, and built to last. The detail matters, and that tends to be where we excel. While traditional methods of building design often emphasise aesthetics and spatial planning, Architectural Technologists dive into the materials, methods, and engineering needed to turn concepts into reality. Sometimes we will follow a ‘form follows function’ approach, responding to the ever increasing need for sustainability and building performance.
Alston and Donelly are Members of the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (MCIAT). This means we specialise in the science and technology of building design. But what does that really mean for our clients? It means we offer expertise in making your vision a reality, whether for a residential, commercial, or sustainable project.
Let’s break down how we work and what sets us, as Architectural Technologists, apart.
Every project begins with an idea. Whether it’s a custom home, a large-scale development, or a commercial site, the brief is where the journey starts. This is where we sit down with clients to discuss their vision in detail. The preparation phase is critical, and like any project worth doing, we ensure every detail is accounted for before moving forward.
At this stage, our approach may look similar to traditional methods, as this is the foundation for a successful project. However, as Architectural Technologists, we bring a unique focus on technical feasibility right from the start.
Once the brief is clear, we conduct detailed surveys to gather key information about the site and project requirements. Unlike traditional approaches that might rely on external contractors for certain tasks, we handle most aspects in-house, including measured surveys. This hands-on approach allows us to control the process more effectively and minimise potential setbacks.
Whether it’s a self-build, a home conversion, or a commercial site, every project is treated as unique. We aim to make the journey from concept to completion as seamless and stress-free as possible, ensuring every detail is considered from the outset.
With detailed surveys complete, we move on to the concept design phase. Here, we focus on meeting planning policies, achieving the desired aesthetic, and creating a design that aligns with the brief. Design work can often be a balancing act between aspirations, budget and site/technical restrictions.
These concept drawings are rendered in 3D for clarity and, in some cases, even explored using VR headsets. This ensures clients have a comprehensive understanding of the design before moving forward.
After gathering client feedback and refining the concept, we produce a full technical drawing package, often including site specific details, schedules and other technical reports that may be required.
What sets Architectural Technologists apart during this stage is our focus on the practical and technical elements of a design. We advise on material options, evaluating their benefits and drawbacks, and ensure that every element is optimised for structural, thermal and fire integrity and efficiency.
Our goal is to provide fully developed plans that can be submitted to building control with confidence, ensuring compliance and setting the stage for smooth construction, eliminating potential costly delays that can occur when drawings are revised on the fly.
When construction starts, Architectural Technologists take an active role in the process. We work closely with contractors and spend significant time on-site, ensuring that the project is executed as planned. Our involvement minimises disruptions and ensures that all outcomes align with the initial vision.
Unlike more traditional approaches, where external advice and oversight may be relied upon, we remain directly involved throughout the build. This hands-on approach allows us to bridge the gap between the design and construction phases, ensuring every detail is executed to the highest standard.
Architectural Technologists are uniquely positioned to handle both the design and technical aspects of a project. While there are professionals who focus more on creative concepts or rely on outside expertise for technical details, we combine both disciplines to deliver a seamless experience for our clients.
When choosing any design professional it can be prudent to stick to chartered professionals, be it MCIAT like us, or RIBA, ARB, etc. It is equally important to make sure that the professional you are hiring has the skills and experience required for the project you are undertaking. For example, one of the worlds most successful residential designers may have very little experience in the pharmaceutical industry.
When you find a professional that has the right qualifications, insurances and can demonstrate the relevant project experience then you can be confident that you are in safe hands. Our mission is simple: to make the process of building or improving your home or workplace as smooth and rewarding as possible—without unnecessary disruptions or delays.
So, do you need an Architectural Technologist for your next project? If you’re looking for a partner to guide you through every step, from concept to construction, we’d love to help. Let’s bring your vision to life.
