SUPPLEMENTAL ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES: Architecture Is More Than Just Drawing

INTRODUCTION

Architecture is a vast field. Apart from its legal definitions, it may also be defined as the blending of aesthetics, functions, space, materials and its environment resulting from the application of various technologies and skills in different fields. (SPP 203) Most of the time, people fail to understand that the architect’s job goes way beyond just drawing or designing in a project. To prove that, we can cite the documents provided by the United Architects of the Philippines (UAP), the Standards of Professional Practice (SPP), which is required under Sec. 41 of Republic Act no. 9266 (The Architecture Act of 2004) and its Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR), which states that:

“SECTION 41. Implementing Rules and Regulations – Within sixty (60) days after the effectivity of this Act, the Board, subject to the approval of the Commission and in coordination with the integrated and accredited professional organization, shall adopt and promulgate such rules and regulations, Code of Ethical Conduct and Standards of Professional Practice, to carry out the provisions of this Act and which shall be effective fifteen (15) days following their publication in the Official Gazette or in two (2) major daily newspapers of general circulation.”

SUPPLEMENTAL ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES

Supplemental Architectural Services are the services that are not included as Regular Design Services to be provided by the architect. These services require specific expertise to further enhance the architectural interior and exterior components of a project. Under the SPP 203, they are recognized as the Specialized Architectural Services. Some of the design services needed within and outside the building which fall under this category, as listed under the pertinent provisions of R.A. No. 9266 and its 2004 IRR, are the following: Architectural Interiors (AI), Acoustic Design, Architectural Lighting Layout and Design, Site Development Planning (SDP), Site and Physical Planning Services (including Master Development Planning, Subdivision Planning and Urban Design), Comprehensive Development Planning, Historic and Cultural Heritage Conservation and Planning, Security Evaluation and Planning, Building Systems Design, and Facilities Maintenance Support.

CONCLUSION

Architects continually widen their knowledge to be able to compete with other professionals and be globally-competent. That is why it is important to break the misconceptions of people regarding Architecture being about just drawing. In doing so, the architects will be able to practice their profession to its fullest.