RIBA or ASBA?

[MikeR]

I'm looking to put together a group self-build and I'm going to need an architect at some point - is there any difference between one who's a member of RIBA or one who's a member of ASBA or are they going to be pretty much the same?

Thanks

[MikeSharp01]

ASBA is a community or RIBA architects, you can only call yourself an architect if you are RIBA registered, who just specialise in house building so I guess you would need an RIBA architect who is linked / associated or otherwise pays homage to the goals of ASBA.

[MikeR]

Ah - that now makes sense - so every architect would be a RIBA member, but some architects would be a member of both.

 

Thanks MikeSharp01

[Ian]

@MikeR

Actually you don't have to be a member of the RIBA to be registered as an architect. The RIBA is simply a professional association.

 

The ARB is the body that all architects need to be registered with by law.

Edited September 2, 2017 by Ian

[caliwag]

Personally, Regardless of registration, I'd want to see examples of their previous work or ideas. It all depends why you think you want an architect! Yes, there are some chancers out there, but surly it's the inspiring ideas your after. It is true that RIBA is unimportant...just a club, whereas ARB is indeed the guarantee of professionalism, but is no guarantee of interesting thinking...sadly. I am poised to publish a book, 'self build home....the last thing you want is an architect'...An exercise in getting you to think about what you want before the fee counter starts clicking. I'm sure I'm not allowed to advertise on here so I will say no more...just a thought.