So, you’ve decided you want to study something related to the built environment, but what discipline do you want to study?

• Architectural Technology
• Construction Management
• Civil Engineering
• Architectural Engineering
• Architecture
• Building Surveying
• Quantity Surveying

Many of the built environment disciplines are relatively straightforward to understand but there are some that are more challenging to differentiate between, in particular architecture, architectural technology and architectural engineering. There is overlap between these disciplines, and all of them are design disciplines, but it is useful to define what each of these disciplines are and how they potentially work together.

Architectural Technology

Architectural technologists specialise in the technical aspects of building design and construction, working closely with architects to translate their concepts into detailed, workable plans. They develop technical drawings and specifications, ensure compliance with regulations and codes, and select appropriate materials and construction methods. They also address technical issues that arise during construction.

Architectural Engineering

Architectural engineers integrate engineering principles with architectural design to ensure buildings are structurally sound, energy-efficient, and sustainable. Their responsibilities include collaborating with architects to develop detailed structural, mechanical, and electrical systems that support the building’s design. They perform technical analyses, create specifications, and ensure compliance with building codes and safety regulations. They focus on optimizing the building’s performance in terms of safety, comfort, and environmental impact. 

Architecture

Architects are responsible for designing buildings and structures that are functional, safe, aesthetically pleasing, and sustainable. Their duties include creating detailed architectural plans and ensuring that designs comply with building codes and regulations. Architects collaborate with key design team stakeholders to oversee the construction process, addressing any design-related issues that arise. Ultimately, architects guide a project from concept through completion, balancing artistic vision with practical considerations.

Example 1

Architecture– Conduct a comprehensive site analysis to understand the surrounding urban fabric and develop a context-sensitive design response. This includes studying pedestrian movement patterns and analysing views from various angles to ensure a thoughtful and harmonious integration with the environment.

Architectural Engineering– Perform a detailed site analysis to gain a deep understanding of the surrounding urban fabric and craft a design that responds thoughtfully to the context. This involves examining pedestrian movement patterns and evaluating views from multiple perspectives to achieve a seamless and harmonious integration with the environment.

Architectural Technology– Integrate the technical aspects of topographical levels into the design proposals to ensure accessibility is thoughtfully and effectively resolved.

Example 2

Architecture– Examine the relationship with nearby buildings and their proportions, ensuring a harmonious integration with the surroundings. Additionally, emphasizes meaningful connections between landscaping elements to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of the external spaces.

Architectural Engineering– Support conducting a pedestrian comfort analysis for seating areas, considering the overshadowing impact of surrounding buildings on the landscape to ensure a balanced and inviting outdoor environment.

Architectural Technology– Provide detailed consideration of accessibility aspects, ensuring seamless coordination with landscape elements, including floor finish levels, materials, and external furniture, to create a cohesive and functional design.

Example 3

Architecture– Analyse the spatial layout and the relationship between circulation spaces to ensure efficient flow and usability. Curate the interior materials and colour palette to create a cohesive and visually appealing environment. Additionally, harmonize material relationships, such as the integration of ceiling panels with structural arrangements, to achieve both functional and aesthetic coherence.

Architectural Engineering– Perform daylighting analysis to maximize natural light utilization and integrate it with artificial lighting systems, ensuring energy efficiency and optimal visual comfort. Provide expert recommendations on desktop lighting solutions tailored for functionality and ergonomics. Additionally, offer guidance on acoustic specifications, focusing on wall finishes and partition designs, to enhance sound quality and minimize noise disturbances within the space.

Architectural Technology– Develop detailed designs for material transitions and acoustic panel integration to ensure seamless connections and optimal sound performance. Coordinate ceiling panel layouts with lighting designs to achieve both functional and aesthetic balance. Provide precise material specifications tailored to project requirements, considering durability, performance, and design intent.

Example 4

Architecture– Examine the relationship between interior and exterior spaces to create a continuous connection, enhancing spatial flow and interaction. Focus on transitions such as thresholds, openings, and views to harmonize the indoor and outdoor environments. Additionally, organize and establish a hierarchy for the furniture layout to ensure functionality, visual balance, and alignment with the overall design intent, prioritizing user comfort and efficient space utilization.

Architectural Engineering– Provide recommendations on natural and/or mechanical ventilation strategies to ensure optimal indoor air quality and thermal comfort. This includes evaluating passive design features like cross-ventilation and stack effects, as well as specifying mechanical systems where necessary for enhanced performance. Additionally, specify appropriate lighting levels by integrating daylighting and artificial lighting to meet functional, aesthetic, and regulatory requirements, ensuring a balanced and energy-efficient lighting environment.

Architectural Technology– Develop detailed designs for material transitions, such as wall coverings, to ensure smooth and visually appealing connections between surfaces. Pay close attention to texture, colour, and finish to create cohesive design elements. Coordinate these details with ceiling designs and artificial lighting layouts, ensuring that lighting fixtures complement the materials and enhance the overall spatial ambiance, functionality, and aesthetic integrity.

Interested in studying Sustainable Engineering at Roehampton? Find out more here.