Construction Manager Vs Architect: With advancements in technology, the world is witnessing some incredible buildings, residential complexes, offices, and more. After all, it’s a team effort. A beautifully looking and fully functional building or development is the result of the combined effort of an architect, construction manager, building designer, engineer and more. However, we will be learning more about details on architects and construction managers. For any construction project, both are the key pillars. While an architect designs and plans the building, the construction manager is responsible for the perfect execution of the building design from scratch to a tangible product. Let’s understand more about the roles, responsibilities, similarities and differences between an architect and a construction manager.
Who is an Architect?
An architect is a building design and planning professional. Architects prepare the structural plans and blueprints of the building as they have a sound understanding of the art and science of building. It’s their responsibility to ensure that the building stands aesthetically appealing, functional, efficient, and safe.
Besides preparing the plans and blueprints of the building, their role and responsibilities also include:
- Researching on local laws, building regulations, permissions or any regulatory decisions that may affect the building design.
- Creating 3D models/ visualizations of the proposed building for presentation before clients, investors, authorities, and other stakeholders.
- Calculating project cost estimates, environmental changes, sustainability impact and more.
- Coordinating with the construction team to ensure that the building is constructed according to the designs.
Who is a Construction Manager?
The Construction Manager oversees the entire construction work from building design to process. They hire, approve, and manage subcontractors to carry out work such as plumbing, wiring, heating, insulation etc. These managers spearhead the entire construction crew to ensure that the project is delivered as expected by the client in terms of quality, budget, and time. Here are some other responsibilities of the construction managers:
- Creating construction strategy and task allocation.
- Scheduling tasks and planning roadmaps to meet the deadlines.
- Monitoring the project to ensure it is meeting all the regulations and guidelines.
- Collaborating with the design team and architects.
- Tracking the progress and regular status updates to the client.
Similarities between Architect and Construction Manager
The construction Manager and architect both need to plan the project. The architect needs to plan the design while a construction manager needs to plan on how the design will be executed. Communication is essential for both professionals with just a difference that architects communicate with the construction crew and client. The construction manager needs to maintain clear communication between subcontractors, labourers, clients, and the architect as well. Mostly, both architects and construction managers are paid according to the project and do not have fixed salaries.
Construction Manager Vs Architect | What’s The Difference
There are certain differences between them also. Have a look at some common differences between construction managers and architects.
| Aspect | Architects | Construction Managers |
| Education | An architect needs to have a professional degree in architecture before starting to offer their services. The need to have at least a bachelor’s degree in architecture. They can also take courses or pursue post-graduation degrees as well. Advance courses and certifications will help them stay updated on modern building practices, sustainable building design, modern building technology and more. | A construction manager needs to hold a degree in civil engineering or construction management. Other options may be building science or construction engineering or similar degrees. This gives them knowledge about understanding construction deeply, sustainable practices, BIM, Surveying, Regulation, cost control and more. |
| Salaries | Architects draw handsome salaries. The best part is that they can offer their services across the globe. The salaries vary with geographical location, seniority levels, expertise, experience, project type and complexity. The average salary of an architect in the US starts from $60,000+. | Construction Managers with a proven track record are paid excellent in all parts of the globe. The salary greatly depends on the cost of living and the region’s economy, demand, years of experience, education and most importantly the location and complexity of the project. The average salary of a construction manager starts from $70,000+. |
| Role in Construction project | These professionals design buildings and structures with a diligent focus on aesthetics, functionality, and safety. Their role comes in pre-construction. | They manage the entire construction process from start to finish, coordinate with various parties, and ensure projects are completed on time and within budget. |
| License and Certification | Architects typically require licensure or registration with relevant professional bodies globally, involving the completion of a professional degree, gaining practical experience, and passing licensing examinations. | Construction managers may have optional certifications available, but the requirements for licensure vary widely depending on the jurisdiction, with some opting for certifications such as Certified Construction Manager (CCM) or Project Management Professional (PMP) based on their field of expertise. |
| Skills | Some highly desirable skills for architects include business awareness, market analysis, design competence, artistic creativity, creative ability, numerical skills, legal Awareness, excellent verbal, and written communication skills | To stand above the rest in the market, a construction manager should possess leading power, organizing and planning abilities, goal setting, planning objectives, risk management, appropriate delegation, prioritizing tasks, good communication skills and should be receptive to feedback. |
| Communication/Interaction | An architect collaborates with engineers, contractors, and clients throughout the design and construction process. | A Construction manager needs to stay connected with architects, engineers, subcontractors, labourers, suppliers, clients, and regulatory bodies to ensure the success of the project. |
| Career Path | They can progress to senior architects, or project manager, or specialize in specific types of projects (e.g., residential, commercial, healthcare, green, biophilic). | For them, career path may progress to senior project manager, construction consultant, or pursue roles in development or real estate management. |
Bottom Line
Though there are some major differences between “Construction Manager Vs Architect” the roles and responsibilities of both professionals, they are two sides of the same coin. An architect and a construction manager need to go hand in hand to deliver a robust and beautiful building. Renderspoint is one of the leading 3D visualization companies that help both construction managers and architects visualize their projects and deliver a masterpiece that speaks of success! For more information reach out to us at sayhello@renderspoint.com.
