Architect vs. Designer

Some say a goal without a plan is just a wish. And, as we discussed in our recent article on key takeaways for building in Missoula, in our opinion the most important question to ask as you begin the building process is this:

Do I have the right player(s) on my team to create a set of great plans for my contractor?

If your answer is “no” or “I don’t know,” then this is the blog for you.

So, who can make a great plan for a general contractor?

Now, it’s true that in Missoula civilians can make plans for residential buildings (not commercial) and submit them to the city for approval. But in our experience, it’s a rare private citizen who has the time, skillset, and patience to create plans of this stature and navigate this process. 

Typically, plans for residential homes are created by either an architect or a designer. 

So what’s the difference, and which one should you go with?

An architect is a licensed professional and anyone not certified may not legally call themselves an architect. Architects have completed a master’s program in architecture. They have also passed multiple accreditation tests, and have worked under a licensed architect. Architects are licensed to do commercial-level work and can sign off on the engineering in their prints, not needing an engineer. 

A designer on the other hand is a bit of a “catch all” term. Designer can refer to interior designers, who select finishes and some structural elements. But a designer who draws building plans refers to anyone who is not a licensed architect. They may be a trained architect who has not taken their accreditation tests or be someone who is just plain good at drawing plans. An architectural license is not required to draw residential plans, only commercial.