{"id":14432,"date":"2025-08-12T11:27:41","date_gmt":"2025-08-12T11:27:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mjarc.com\/?p=14432"},"modified":"2025-08-12T11:27:41","modified_gmt":"2025-08-12T11:27:41","slug":"architectural-services-far-beyond-the-project","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mjarc.com\/en\/architectural-services-far-beyond-the-project\/","title":{"rendered":"Architectural Services: Far Beyond the Project"},"content":{"rendered":"

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\u2019s 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.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Technical Consultancy for Property or Land Acquisition<\/b><\/h2>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Architectural Design and Project Development<\/b><\/h2>\n

Design development is one of the architect\u2019s 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. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Coordination of Building Systems and BIM Implementation<\/b><\/h3>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n

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. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Site Supervision and Construction Management<\/b><\/h3>\n

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.<\/span><\/p>\n