Architects vs building designers: What’s the difference and who should you hire?
One of the first decisions you’ll face when you decide to build or renovate your home is: who will design it?
Most homeowners automatically think "architect" — but that's often overkill for what you actually need. Architects are definitely qualified, but for most residential projects, a building designer is likely the better choice… and will save you thousands of dollars in the process.
So what’s the difference between an architect and a building designer, and how do you know which one to hire? That's what this guide is about. I'll walk you through the key differences and when each makes sense for your project. We’ll also cover exactly what to look for and what questions to ask to make sure you’re hiring the right person.
The difference between architects and building designers
Both architects and building designers must have a deep understanding of building codes and regulations. Their primary role and responsibility is to create plans that are submitted to the permitting authorities. They both work with homeowners, contractors, interior designers, engineers, city planners, and other specialists to ensure that your home’s design meets local code and is safe to build. This matters because the quality of your plans directly affects your budget, timeline, and whether your project gets approved by the city.
However, there are big differences too.
Architects: Creative, accredited, and expensive
Architects are artists and your home is their canvas.
If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind design and have both the time and budget for it, an architect can help bring that vision to life.
Architects are more highly trained and regulated than building designers. They must have an accredited architecture degree, have completed supervised experience, and be licensed with their local province or state. They're required to complete continuing education to maintain their licenses.
They are typically very expensive and more commonly work on complex, larger-scale projects like multi-family homes and public, commercial, or institutional buildings.
Architects also carry professional liability insurance and can seal drawings for complex projects — something that's required for larger or more technically challenging builds.
Finding an architect who understands the nuances of residential construction — and will build to your needs and budget rather than their creative preferences — can be challenging.
Building designers: Practical, affordable, and plugged in
A more common and affordable alternative for most homeowners is to work with a building designer or a draftsman, either on custom drawings or by purchasing ready-made plans.
They offer comprehensive design and drafting services for projects including single-family homes, duplexes, townhouses, and certain commercial or industrial buildings.
Building designers bring a different kind of expertise to the table. Their training and hands-on experience are focused specifically on the types of residential construction projects most homeowners typically have in mind, which means they understand the practical challenges and solutions you’ll likely face along the way.
Building designers may also need certification or licensing depending on your jurisdiction, though requirements vary widely and are typically less demanding than for architects. They may have different insurance coverage and continuing education requirements, so it's worth asking about their credentials and professional standing in your area.
Ultimately, an architect focuses more on originality and creativity, whereas the building designer will focus more on whether the project is practical, buildable, and affordable.
From my point of view as someone who has worked extensively with both, building designers are more grounded and connected to the actual construction industry. They have much more on-the-ground knowledge and awareness around potential issues you might encounter. And because they work with more regular homeowners, they tend to be much more practical and budget conscious.
But how do you know which is the best fit for your project? Let’s talk about that next.
When to hire an architect
As a homeowner, you might choose an architect over a building designer when:
You are trying to build an artistic or statement piece with a “wow factor” or unique street appeal
Your budget allows for creative exploration
You have a particularly complex or large-scale project
You want the name recognition or brand of a particular architect attached to your project
When you have a complex or highly creative project, or you just want to stretch the envelope, choose an architect. But know that by stretching the envelope, you are stretching your budget and timelines as well.
When to hire a building designer
As a homeowner, you might choose a building designer over an architect when:
You need a more cost-effective and efficient approach
You want to balance beauty with practical functionality and designs that are easier and less complicated (i.e. affordable) to build
You want someone who has practical residential experience (single-family homes, duplexes, townhouses) and is plugged into the local construction industry
Keep in mind that depending on where you live, building designers may have limitations on the size and types of project they can design. In British Columbia, where I live and work, they can work on buildings up to 3 storeys and 600 square metres — essentially single-family homes, duplexes, and small commercial buildings. If your project is bigger or more complex than that, you'll need an architect. Other jurisdictions have different rules, so check locally.
What to look for when hiring
Creativity and practicality: They must be able to demonstrate that they can deliver a beautiful and functional design within your budget. That means balancing creative vision with the practical realities of construction costs and timelines.
Knowledge of local codes, permitting, and building requirements: They must have extensive understanding and experience around what you can actually do in your area. These are the folks who will be responsible for making sure your designs are in line with local regulations, and they can help troubleshoot when things go sideways. The more knowledge and experience they have in this area, the smoother your project will run.
Experience with similar projects: Look for someone with a proven track record in projects similar to yours in scope and budget. Speak to past clients, contractors, and trades to understand how they managed challenges and worked with the team.
Professional credentials and insurance: Ask about their licensing status, professional insurance coverage, and whether they can seal drawings for your type of project. This is especially important if your project requires permits or has any complexity beyond basic residential construction. It protects you if something goes wrong and ensures they're qualified to handle your project legally.
Collaboration and flexibility: Look for an architect or home designer who works well with contractors and trades, and is open to making adjustments based on feedback.
3D drawings: Ask if they use 3D modeling to help you visualize your space, or even better, Building Information Modeling (BIM). BIM goes beyond just showing you what things will look like. It integrates all the building systems like plumbing, mechanical, and electrical into the design from the start. This means your general contractor knows exactly where everything will go and can better control uncertainties and costs.
Questions to ask
How do you see your role in the construction process? (This will tell you a lot: will they collaborate with your team or expect to run the show?)
How familiar are you with the costs of construction, so that you can deliver a well-costed budget upfront? How do you provide budget-conscious options and alternatives when needed?
Are you licensed/certified in this jurisdiction, and what professional insurance do you carry?
Can you provide examples of your past projects, including what submittal plans look like?
Do you use 3D modeling or BIM to help visualize the design and integrate building systems like plumbing and electrical before construction begins?
Final tip: Bring in your contractor early
Here’s one final thing experience has taught me. Whether you hire an architect or a building designer, be sure your general contractor also has a seat at the planning table from the very beginning. The contractor is the person who will oversee the construction process and knows what’s actually possible within your budget and timeframe.
This single step can save you thousands in redesign costs and months of delays. I've seen too many projects where beautiful plans had to be completely reworked because no one checked if they were actually buildable within budget.
Key takeaways
Most homeowners don't need an architect. Building designers are more affordable, practical, and focused on residential projects. Choose an architect only if you want a truly unique design and have the budget for creative exploration.
Budget consciousness is non-negotiable. Whether you hire an architect or building designer, they must be able to work within your budget and provide cost-conscious alternatives. If they’re not prepared to talk real numbers from the start, keep looking.
Ask the right questions. Focus on their role in the process, budget experience, licensing, and past projects. The answers will tell you everything you need to know about whether they're right for your project — and uncover information you might not get otherwise.
Bring your contractor in early. No matter who you hire for design, get your general contractor involved from the start. They know what's actually buildable within your budget and can save you thousands in redesign costs.
