Architect Roles Explained

Playoust Churcher - Architect roles explained

An architect’s role is more than designing buildings.

Architects are a fundamental part of the entire building process and have professional responsibilities they must comply with.

Here we explain an architect’s role, the skills, expertise and experience required of an architect and why you must choose the right one to build your dream home.

Playoust Churcher - Skills of architects

Skills of an architect

Did you know that architects need to know the most about software programs after computer engineers? They are as important as doctors and lawyers. Without them, society would lack well-built homes and buildings. They must use both sides of their brain as they require creative and analytical thinking skills.

To become qualified and be able to call yourself an architect can take between eight and 10 years. After a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree, architects gain several years of work experience before undertaking a national competency standard. This is a three-part process to show that person has the required skills and experience to register as an architect.

As architects, we need to use both sides of our brains: the creative side to design and the mathematical and analytical side to envisage scale and all aspects of construction. We also need people skills to effectively work with each client to deliver a well-executed project that delivers the client’s vision.

Planning expertise

The planning part of a construction process requires meticulous attention to detail. Feasibility studies must take place on-site to determine any environmental or heritage restrictions, the build’s orientation and any outdoor design considerations.

During the planning phase, we will also consider any zoning requirements and potential risks associated with your build. As we work closely with the North Shore and Northern Beaches Councils, we know the regulations and restrictions of the area, so during the planning phase, we will arrange to meet with the council pre the DA (development application) submission to address any concerns that may arise.

We will also run through a budget allocation and cost analysis to ensure that we can achieve your dream home goals within the financial framework.

Design capabilities

In this part of an architect’s role, we marry our technical knowledge with our design capabilities. Our job in this phase is to interpret your vision and, using our skills, create a space that considers material, environment, design goals and sustainability.

We build this in 3D, so you can envisage what the end product will look like. Our technology lets us virtually show you what your house will look like – from walking through the front door to the selected fittings and fixtures.

Council compliance

This building process is often the most stressful, so we do it all for you. We know and understand it well, so we take care of commissioning a team of experts required to sign off your design, like landscape architects, stormwater engineers, arborists and bushfire or heritage consultants.

We also manage communication with the council and respond to your neighbours’ queries.

Interior architecture

Yes, that’s correct: our role also requires that we construct and design the interior architecture of your home. This is to ensure design cohesion with the outdoor and indoor spaces and consider the necessary planning during the building phase, like bulkheads or shower niches.

We ensure the design of your home doesn’t stop at the structure and roof tiles but extends throughout the home – from countertops and bathroom tiles to staircase materials and balustrades.

Construction management

A critical part of the architectural process is the management of the construction of your home. We work with you to build the master plan and help find the right builder by bringing together a panel of our best, which you can choose from.

We manage the contract and inclusions to ensure that the pricing is accurate and any specifications are included and costed. We also work closely with your builder to provide and discuss detailed technical plans.

Contact us to speak to us about the architect role we can fulfil for your dream home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What roles can an architect take on during a residential project?

Architects can handle everything from initial site feasibility and concept design, through council applications, construction documentation, and on-site coordination. They may also manage consultant deliveries (such as engineers, heritage specialists, or arborists).

Is there a difference between schematic design, design development, and construction documentation?

Yes. Schematic design explores early layout and massing. Design development refines materials, function, and coordination with consultants. Documentation prepares precise technical drawings and specifications for builder tender and construction.

What kind of involvement can I expect during construction?

Playoust Churcher offers construction administration, including site inspections, responses to builder queries, variation management, and ensuring construction aligns with design intent.

How does an architect support planning approvals and DA submissions?

We coordinate zoning assessments, submit DA documentation—including consultant prepared statements—and liaise with council and certifiers to facilitate smooth approval.

What is “architectural consultancy” and when should I engage it?

Consultancy covers feasibility studies, zoning analysis, and master planning—perfect when a project is in early stages. It helps assess site potential before design or council processes begin.

Can an architect guide me on dual occupancy, seniors housing, or small scale development?

Absolutely. Whether it’s dual occupancy, SEPP Seniors Living, boutique townhouse, or subdivision design—Playoust Churcher brings strategic planning, compliance mastery, and design leadership to these project typologies.

How can I begin working with Playoust Churcher on my architectural project?

Start with a consultation to discuss your site, goals and legal constraints. We offer a clear process roadmap—from feasibility to master planning, documentation, approvals, and construction handover.

Key Takeaways

Beyond Structure to Every Detail

Playoust Churcher emphasizes that their role isn’t limited to designing the building’s shell—they handle everything from architectural form to material selections, including countertop finishes, bathroom tiles, and balustrade styles.

Architects as Construction Process Leaders

Their service extends into construction management. They help clients build a strategic master plan, source the right builder, manage contracts and inclusions, and ensure accurate pricing through detailed technical oversight

Integrating Vision and Execution

This role embodies more than drafting—it reflects a seamless continuum from design decisions right through to on-site delivery, aligning aesthetics, functionality, cost, and compliance from start to finish

Client-First Collaboration

The article underscores the firm’s commitment to working collaboratively—not just designing, but also guiding clients through builder selection and decision-making, making projects smoother and more aligned with client expectations

Meet the Author

Brett Churcher

Managing Director & Nominated Architect 
NSW Architect Registration No. 5924

With over 30 years of architectural experience, Brett Churcher leads Playoust Churcher Architects with a rare combination of design expertise and commercial insight. As a registered architect and Managing Director, Brett has played a pivotal role in delivering high-end single residential homes and boutique medium-density developments across Sydney’s North Shore and beyond.

Brett’s unique strength lies in his deep understanding of both architectural design and the Sydney property market. His valuation background enables him to align creative vision with practical feasibility, ensuring each project achieves both aesthetic excellence and financial viability.

At Playoust Churcher, Brett drives the studio’s growth, strategy, and leadership, while remaining closely connected to what matters most: the client. His ability to see the bigger picture from a client’s perspective and to guide projects seamlessly through the design process is at the heart of his role and reputation.