Now covered in more depth
Architect vs. Draftsman in Seattle: What Is the Difference and Who Do You Need?
When planning a home project in the Seattle area, you may encounter both licensed architects and home designers. Understanding the difference will help you make the right hire for your project.
Licensed Architect
A licensed architect has completed an accredited professional degree (typically a Bachelor of Architecture or Master of Architecture), completed the Architectural Experience Program (AXP) with thousands of supervised hours, and passed the Architect Registration Examination (ARE), a multi-part licensing exam. In Washington State, architects are licensed by the Department of Licensing.
Scope of practice: A licensed architect can stamp and sign any type of architectural drawings for any project type. For projects with structural complexity, commercial use, or certain permit requirements, a licensed architect’s stamp is legally required.
Liability: Licensed architects carry professional liability insurance and are held to a standard of care by their licensing board.
Home Designer / Residential Designer
A home designer is not a licensed professional in Washington State, anyone can use this title without specific education, examination, or licensure. Quality ranges enormously. Some home designers have extensive training and produce excellent work; others do not.
Scope of practice: In Washington, unlicensed designers can prepare drawings for certain residential projects (single-family homes and small multi-family). They cannot prepare drawings for commercial buildings, many multi-family projects, or projects requiring engineering.
Limitation: A home designer cannot stamp drawings that require an architect’s seal, and their work is not covered by professional liability insurance.
Planning a project?
Working out what your lot will allow, and what it will cost?
Send David the address and a few lines about what you want. The first feasibility check is free and usually takes about a day: what the site and the code are likely to allow, and what to check first.
Architect since 1996, member of the AIA and NCARB. Three Masonry Excellence Awards for commercial projects; the Carr residence was featured in Above The Lake and Lux magazines.
When to Hire a Licensed Architect
- Any commercial project
- Multi-family projects (3+ units)
- Projects with structural complexity (load-bearing changes, second stories)
- Historic properties subject to landmark review
- Projects where engineering coordination is needed
- When you want professional accountability and licensed expertise
Piper Cole Architects is a licensed architecture firm in Washington State. Contact us for a free feasibility check. Call 425-753-6452.
