Architectural Services: Far Beyond the Project

When discussing architectural services, it is still common to associate the architect’s work solely with drawing plans or signing off on projects. However, the architect’s role is broad and multidisciplinary, covering every stage of a construction or rehabilitation process, from the preliminary analysis prior to property acquisition to the coordination and supervision of construction works. Throughout the entire process, the architect ensures quality, functionality, and technical accuracy.

Technical Consultancy for Property or Land Acquisition

An architect can provide expert support in the preliminary analysis of plots of land (sun exposure, topography, infrastructure, planning constraints, etc.) or existing buildings, identifying critical factors that influence the feasibility of a future project. This consultancy ensures that the acquisition complies with essential technical, legal, and functional requirements for the development of the intended design.

Architectural Design and Project Development

Design development is one of the architect’s core responsibilities. This process includes the preparation of graphic documentation (plans, sections, elevations, construction details) and written components (descriptive and justificatory reports), aligned with the client’s needs and current legislation. Additionally, the architect may also be involved in interior design, proposing aesthetic and functional solutions tailored to each space.

Coordination of Building Systems and BIM Implementation

The construction of a building involves multiple technical systems (structural engineering, water supply and drainage, HVAC, electrical, and telecommunications, among others). The architect assumes the role of project coordinator, ensuring proper integration and compatibility between all disciplines. This coordination helps reduce technical conflicts and inconsistencies on site.

Following the publication of Decree-Law no. 10/2024, Portugal has begun a mandatory transition to Building Information Modeling (BIM), which will become compulsory in public procurement processes by 2030. The use of software such as Revit or ArchiCAD allows for the integration of 3D models with technical data, timelines, and budget estimates. This promotes more efficient project management and reduces errors during execution.

Site Supervision and Construction Management

Under Portuguese law, architects may act as Site Manager or Construction Supervisor, provided they do not simultaneously hold authorship of the architectural project, in order to preserve technical independence.

• Site Management: is responsible for overseeing and managing the technical execution of the works, ensuring full compliance with the approved project and applicable regulations.
• Construction Supervision: represents the client’s interests by ensuring project compliance, execution quality, adherence to deadlines, and budget control.

Both roles require separate contracts and are independent from the design services.

Quantity Surveying and Budgeting

Based on the execution project, the architect prepares bills of quantities and technical specifications, which are essential tools for obtaining comparable proposals from contractors. This process enables effective cost control, reduces financial risks, and promotes transparent and informed decision-making during the procurement phase.

Specialist Technical Consultancy

In cases where a full project is not required, the architect may provide specialised consultancy on topics such as construction feasibility, legalisation of extensions, energy efficiency strategies, sustainable material selection, interior design, or architectural lighting solutions.

Rehabilitation, Restoration, and Heritage Intervention

Interventions in historic or existing buildings, whether through rehabilitation or restoration, require specific expertise. The architect carries out building condition surveys, diagnoses construction pathologies, and defines appropriate intervention strategies. These approaches aim to balance the preservation of the asset’s historical value with the integration of modern standards of comfort, accessibility, and energy efficiency.

Urban Planning and Territorial Design

The architect’s scope of work may extend to the urban and territorial scale. This includes detailed plans, subdivision schemes, or urban regeneration projects. These processes involve analysing mobility systems, public space design, land use, and environmental impact, with the aim of promoting sustainable and coherent urban development.

Licensing and Planning Submission

The architect is responsible for preparing and submitting planning applications or prior communications to the relevant authorities. This includes ensuring compliance with all applicable legal, regulatory, and technical standards. The architect also monitors the process through to final approval and assumes technical responsibility for the submitted documentation.

Property Valuation

Although not a core competency for all architects, some professionals with specialised training are qualified to carry out real estate valuations. These services can be integrated into their broader architectural practice.