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# Appointing a registered Architect is an investment that will give you a return.
Zwart ArchitectsMar 13, 20233 min read
Updated: Apr 7, 2023
A lot of people that have the opportunity to build their own house will go through the process of considering whether they should appoint a registered Architect or rather save some money by appointing someone that is not registered. What many don't understand or realize is that there is a difference and a substantial one at that.
So what are some of these differences? Well, firstly for someone to become a registered Architect in Namibia, and similarly in most places around the world would mean that person spent many years at university in most cases 5 years, and had to obtain a Masters degree or similar level of education. After this another two years of practical experience and then a couple of professional competency exams to be registered. It is clear that any registered Architect had to undergo extensive training and experience to get the title, hence why the title is so valuable to some. Architects have an in-depth understanding and insight when it comes to design and how to express architecture. Architects see things in perspective because they consider thousands of things that others don't see or even realize and they have an eye for detail as Mies van der Rohe said "God is in the details".
Unregistered persons may also be good designers, and some really have a lot of experience and skill, but it is important to note that in Namibia, you require no education, experience, or exams that need to be passed in order to design and submit drawings for buildings not reserved for architects that are less than 500 sqm. This leaves the door open that you may not get what you bargained for especially when you are dealing with someone that does not necessarily have appropriate experience, skill, or understanding when it comes to the elements of design and architecture. There may also not be many ways to accurately validate whether an unregistered person has the appropriate skills for the job at hand, whereas Architects will have some track record that can be traced, because they had to be mentored by a registered Architect during their practical years as well as a portfolio of works and designs that will go as far back as university.
The tipping point for many clients is the costs when it comes to who to appoint. Architect's fees are regulated by law and they have minimum fees that they must charge, meaning they can't charge less than what is required. Unregistered persons can set their own fees, and can charge considerably less than a registered Architect. For many, the fees of Architects just seem too much and they would rather spend some of that budget on nicer appliances or fixtures.
This may be a big risk especially when it comes to the long-term investment and return on the value of the property. What many clients fail to realize is the added value the architect will bring to the property. Looking at statistics and comparing the values of properties designed by Architects compared to other persons, will show that there is a return and one that will most likely keep on growing. This return may very well pay back the initial investment on the fees paid to a registered Architect.
The question might be which route should you go? It is important that whatever choice you make that it is a well-informed one. Some may just not have the budget to appoint a registered Architect but be aware of the possible challenges and that whoever gets appointed is well suited and equipped to carry out your brief. If you have the budget and want to make sure you secure your investment for years to come a registered Architect will be highly recommended especially if you are planning on high-end designs.
If you have any questions regarding this post, please contact me and I will gladly assist and provide more insight.
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# How do you become a registered Architect in Namibia?
Zwart ArchitectsMar 14, 20233 min read
The field of architecture is very exciting and may seem quite glamorous, therefore it attracts many that want to pursue this. When I formed my interest in this career path many years ago I went to some practicing architects to get an idea of what it was really about, for most this experience is an eye opener that can be positive or negative, usually ending any uncertainty and you either want to know more or the interest is removed completely. For me, it was a positive experience but I had absolutely no idea what the requirements are for becoming a registered architect or where to start, this is what I would like to give some answers to for those that may be in the same position today or maybe just want to know a little bit more about this pursuit.
To become eligible to become registered as an architect in Namibia it will start with education at a university. Every university will have its own minimum requirements for example a 50% mark in Maths and English, but a lot of emphasis is placed on the creative portfolios that need to be submitted with applications. It is with this that you need to show your creative thinking and where applicants can stand out to the selection panels.
The creative portfolio requirements will also differ between universities and it is a good place to start by getting this information as soon as you can in order to build on this portfolio. I went to art classes which helped me a lot to create presentable portfolios. It is important to keep in mind you don't need to be an artist to become an architect and architectural drawing has got a lot more to do with perception, expression, and conveying an idea than it has with fine art, so if your not the greatest sketch artist like me don't be discouraged and do a google search on conceptual architecture sketches, this should give you some idea of how "rough" some of our sketches can be, but the idea that one is trying to explore is there.
I would advise applicants to apply to at least two or more universities, because some may have a limited number of intakes a year which may make it difficult to get accepted. You can find the accredited universities or educations that are accepted by the Namibian Council of Architects and Quantity Surveyors on their website, or give them a call if you're not sure. Your university studies will typically consist of a 5 year period and two or three degrees as follows in this order:
- Bachelor of Architecture Degree (3 years)
- Honours Degree in Architecture (1 year) not all universities offer this
- Master of Architecture Degree (1 year or 2 years if there is no Honours program)
Once you have obtained your Masters Degree you will need to register with the Namibian Council of Architects and Quantity Surveyors as an Architect in Training (Candidate Architect in South Africa). There will be a list of requirements and some forms that you will need to complete which can all be found on their website, these include an employment letter from a registered Architect, enrollment with the Namibian Institute of Architects, and an evaluation by the Namibian Qualifications Authority of your qualifications.
As an Architect in Training, you will have to complete 2 years of practical training under the guidance or mentorship of a registered architect. You will be required to submit monthly reports on your training and have to show certain amounts of hours in various categories. Unfortunately in Namibia, there is a lack of good guidance when it comes to training Architects, but it is important to keep focus and ask questions to learn as much as you can during this time. Once the training period is completed a candidate can apply to sit the Professional Competency exams after a final report or portfolio is submitted. These exams are the last step in the process and consist of two papers, one dealing with calculations such as fees and payment certificates, the other with contracts and legislation. The pass mark when I wrote was an average of 75% and if you get 65% you were invited for an oral examination. Passing these exams is no easy task and may take a lot of endurance, but once you have accomplished this last hurdle you will be registered as an Architect and it will be a great achievement.
 For any questions regarding this article please contact me and I will gladly assist.
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