THE ARCHITECT AND THE PUBLIC

Timaru Herald, Volume CL, Issue 22043, 16 August 1941, Page 10

THE ARCHITECT AND THE PUBLIC

A MISUNDERSTANDING OF FUNCTIONS “It is a constant surprise and disappointment to find that so many of the public have scanty notions about the service which a well-qualified architect has to give when he is entrusted with the designing of a house and the supervision of its building,” states a member of the New Zealand Institute of Architects. "The architect’s first responsibility is to make the best possible use of the site, for a mistake on that ground can reduce the value of a property. As building costs are heavy in these days, he has to use his skill to the utmost in planning for economy without sacrific of quality. “After the preliminary sketch plans and discussions with a client, the architect has to give keen attention to the preparation of the working drawings and specifications, which have to describe the building accurately and clearly. In addition he is the professional adviser in matters such as these:— “(1) Drawing up a proper contract; (2) Complying with by-laws; (3> Determining the time for the amounts of payments to the contractor; (4) ensuring that the work is covered by insurance while under construction against risks of fire and employers’ liability for accident to workmen or passers-by; (5) Providing for connection of services such as electric current, gas. water, drainage: (6) Obtaining guarantees from contractors regarding durability and weather-tight-ness; (7) Providing for protection of adjoining buildings.”