Architecture; a noun. Meaning, "the art or practice of designing and constructing buildings".
I graduated from the Architecture-Construction Engineering program at Conestoga College back in 2014. I was a mature student and discovered my passion for construction and deeply needed to know why buildings perform the way they do, and what makes them function.
In the years since then, I feel like I worked two careers at the same time. I was a passionate consumer of everything building code related and quickly learned as a building official that building code compliance and design are interrelated and like a proper marriage, the two need each other to function.
Although I enjoyed my time working as a plans examiner, and later building inspector, I always had the entrepreneurial spirit. I couldn’t sit still knowing there were people that needed someone like me to help move their project along from the beginning with care and attention to those details which lead to regulatory compliance and something someone can truly enjoy spending their time in. Be it due to a sound building envelope, an efficient structure or a really nice looking fireplace surround to anchor their living room.
I was always inspired by the architects of old. True craftsmen that built our edifices to God, the great cathedrals of worship and meeting houses of our forefathers. These people embodied what it means to practice architecture (by definition), to truly understand what makes the building work, in all aspects. From a well laid out plan utilizing their working tools like the skirret, pencil and compasses to overseeing the placement of the building's cornerstone, ensuring it is square, level and plumb. They supervised the work and career development of their apprentice labourers and fellowcraft stone masons to finally witness and celebrate the installation of the final elements of the building.
In times like these when I am wrapped up in the stressors of running a business, or problem solving the next issue that comes up, I need to remind myself that this is what I picture when I think of architecture. This is why I do what I do, and will continue to do.
This brings me to the current issue at hand and the cause of my introspection. The word “architecture” has been in common usage since the mid-sixteenth century. I never thought much of the regulatory implications, beyond the understanding of where I fit within the regulatory system we operate under in the Province of Ontario. As a BCIN designer (building code identification number - a title only a bureaucrat could love), I know my due bounds and operate within them every day. My website specifically references my BCIN qualifications, and references the types of projects I am legally permitted (thank you bill 124) to undertake. The scope is not insignificant; from small residential projects to multi-unit buildings (within certain size constraints - we have worked on 8 unit stacked townhouses) to commercial tenant fitouts (shout out to local businesses such as Simcoe’s hottest gym, The Training Station). I do not pretend to be an architect, nor is this referenced anywhere on my website, or materials. Architects, Professional Engineers, Interior Designers and BCIN designers all have a role to play in the design of buildings.
Someone has felt threatened enough due to the good work I am doing and has submitted a complaint to the The Ontario Association of Architects (OAA) on the basis that I am misleading the public in thinking I provide the services of a licensed architect, merely by using the word “architecture”. When someone feels it’s necessary to take a swing at your business and livelihood to protect their interests, you know you are doing something right. My advice, you better not miss.
I know I am making a positive contribution to my community, customers, my staff and my family. This experience has reminded me that I need to remember why I am here, who I am serving and what kind of built environment I want my son to grow up in. I’m here, and will not be going anywhere, no matter what words may change.
If this resonates with you at all, please feel free to DM me. Especially if you are a design professional (BCIN, Architectural Technologist, Licensed Architectural Technologist, Interior Designer, etc), I am interested in putting a working group together to discuss these complaints that are spreading through the design community. We need each other more than ever.
Thank you for coming to my TED talk.