Public perception regarding the role of the architect as a worthwhile profession and as a contributor to the community? • The growth in popularity as a subject of study appears to have been somewhat offset by a lack of appreciation of the practice of architecture. • There appears to be a divergence of views and no real consensus regarding the way in which the architect’s role is perceived.
How optimistic are you regarding the future of the profession? • Cautious optimism at best, underpinned by an abiding sense that the profession appears to have difficulty articulating what it does and why it matters. • Public sector clients do not appear to understand the value of the profession. • Noted that in several Commonwealth countries, architects can only be found in the main towns, ie there is considerable potential for growing the profession. • Threats perceived from unregulated paraprofessionals.
Whether the role of the architect on site has improved over the past 20 years? • Responses from several countries suggest a slow deterioration in the authority of the architect during construction and a rise in the influence of para-professionals such as project managers.
Ways in which the CAA can support your region? • Advocate the value of architecture and its importance in terms of place making and urban design. • Advocate the value of architecture to government together with policies which support the profession, eg procurement practices, fees etc • Develop guidance for cross-border practice. • Promote internship/exchange programmes between member countries at both faculty and student level. • Provide scholarships for talented students in financial hardship. • Organise regional competitions to help tackle real-world issues and help secure funding to deliver projects.
Survey of the Architectural Profession in the Commonwealth
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