Module 1

1.1 Architects Act ‘97

The Architects Act, 1972, establishes the legal framework for the profession of architecture in India.
It provides for the regulation of the title "architect," the maintenance of standards in the profession,
and the establishment of the Council of Architecture (CoA).

1.2 Council of Architecture (CoA)

The CoA is a statutory body created under the Architects Act, 1972. It governs the registration of
architects and the maintenance of standards in architectural education and professional practice in
India.

1.2.1 Functions of the Council of Architecture

1. Registration and Regulation:

• Maintain a register of architects (Indian Architects Register).

• Regulate the use of the title “architect” and prevent its misuse.

• Ensure only qualified individuals practice as architects.

2. Educational Standards:

• Prescribe minimum standards for architectural education.

• Inspect institutions imparting architectural education to ensure compliance with these

standards.

3. Professional Development:

• Develop and revise standards of professional conduct.

• Promote continued professional education and research.

4. Dispute Resolution and Discipline:

• Act as an adjudicator in disputes related to professional conduct.

• Initiate disciplinary actions against architects for professional misconduct.

5. Promotion and Advocacy:

• Promote advancements in architecture as a profession.

• Advocate for architects' rights and responsibilities.

1.2.2 Powers of the Council of Architecture

• Prescribe Standards of Education: Formulate regulations for entry into the profession and
oversee compliance with these standards.
• Registration of Architects: Grant, suspend, or remove registration.
• Inspection and Monitoring: Inspect architectural institutions to assess the quality of
education.
• Disciplinary Powers: Take action against architects for professional misconduct.
 • Advisory Role: Advise the central and state governments on matters related to architecture.

1.3 Architects Regulations (1989)

These regulations were introduced to standardize and enforce the provisions of the Architects Act,
including the responsibilities of architects and professional conduct.

Key aspects include:

1. Code of Professional Conduct: Establishes ethical standards for architects.

2. Architects' Fees and Charges: Guidelines for appropriate professional fees.

3. Professional Misconduct: Defines actions that constitute misconduct, such as negligence or

non-compliance with standards.

4. Continuing Professional Development: Encourages skill enhancement through training or

workshops.

1.4 Standard Terms for Comprehensive Architectural Services

These terms outline the scope of services, responsibilities, and fee structures for architects. They are
applicable across different project types, including Urban Design (UD) and Conservation works.

Scope of Services:

1. Pre-Design Services:

o Site analysis and feasibility studies.

o Development of the project brief.

2. Design Services:

o Concept design and schematic design.

o Detailed design and coordination with other consultants.

3. Construction Services:

o Preparation of tender documents and contract management.

o Site supervision and quality assurance.

4. Post-Construction Services:

o Assistance during the defects liability period.

o Completion and handover documentation.

Urban Design and Conservation Work Considerations:

• In Urban Design, architects often provide master planning, public realm design, and
integration of infrastructure with the built environment.

• In Conservation, they focus on heritage documentation, analysis of structural conditions,

material conservation, and adaptive reuse strategies.

Key Guidelines for Fee Calculation:

 • Basic Services Fee: Percentage of the total project cost.

• Additional Services Fee: Charged for tasks beyond standard services, like project
management or detailed heritage documentation.

• Reimbursable Expenses: Travel, models, and other project-specific expenditures are billed
separately.

1.5 Guidelines for Architectural Competitions

Architectural competitions are governed by specific guidelines to ensure fairness, transparency, and
professional integrity. These guidelines are typically developed by professional bodies like the
Council of Architecture (CoA) and the Indian Institute of Architects (IIA).

Key Guidelines:

1. Objectives:

o Promote innovation and creativity in design.

o Encourage healthy competition among architects.

2. Types of Competitions:

o Open Competitions: Open to all qualified architects.

o Limited Competitions: Restricted to selected participants based on qualifications or

invitation.

o Single-Stage or Two-Stage Competitions: Depending on the complexity of the

project.

3. Eligibility:

o Only architects registered with the CoA are allowed to participate.

o Team submissions may require at least one registered architect.

4. Transparency in Briefing:

o Provide a detailed competition brief, including objectives, design requirements,

evaluation criteria, and deadlines.

o Ensure clarity in project scope and deliverables.

5. Jury and Evaluation:

o A jury panel consisting of experienced professionals should be constituted.

o The jury's decision should be impartial and based on the evaluation criteria outlined
in the brief.

6. Anonymity:

o Submissions must remain anonymous to avoid bias during the evaluation process.

7. Awards and Honorarium:

o Clear disclosure of the prize structure.

 o Payment of an honorarium for shortlisted or winning entries.

8. Post-Competition Commitments:

o The winning architect should ideally be awarded the project commission or be

involved in the subsequent stages of design.

o Copyright of design entries remains with the architect unless specified otherwise.

9. Adherence to Standards:

o Competitions must comply with the professional code of conduct as per the
Architects Act, 1972.

1.6 Professional Ethics in Architecture

Professional ethics are critical to maintaining integrity, accountability, and public trust in architectural
practice.

Key Principles:

1. Competence and Diligence:

o Architects must undertake projects within their expertise and deliver work of high
quality.

o Regularly update skills through continued professional education.

2. Honesty and Transparency:

o Provide clients with honest advice and disclose any conflicts of interest.

o Avoid plagiarism and acknowledge sources of inspiration.

3. Client Relations:

o Maintain confidentiality of client information.

o Ensure fair and transparent billing practices.

4. Respect for Colleagues:

o Avoid soliciting clients or projects unethically.

o Respect the intellectual property of fellow professionals.

5. Responsibility to Society:

o Promote sustainable and environmentally sensitive design practices.

o Ensure that designs prioritize public safety, health, and welfare.

6. Adherence to Regulations:

o Comply with all legal, zoning, and building code requirements.

o Avoid practices that harm the reputation of the profession.

1.7 Indian Institute of Architects (IIA)
The Indian Institute of Architects (IIA) is a national professional organization representing architects
in India. Established in 1917, the IIA plays a pivotal role in promoting architecture and upholding
professional standards.

Functions of IIA:
1. Advocacy and Representation:

o Represent architects’ interests to the government and other stakeholders.

o Promote public awareness about the role of architecture.

2. Professional Development:

o Organize seminars, workshops, and competitions for skill enhancement.

o Facilitate knowledge exchange and networking among architects.

3. Standardization:

o Develop guidelines for architectural practice, including fee structures and

competition protocols.

4. Education and Research:

o Promote architectural education and research through scholarships and publications.

5. Advisory Role:

o Advise on matters related to urban development, heritage conservation, and

sustainability.

Powers of IIA:
• Define professional standards and ethical guidelines.

• Collaborate with international organizations for knowledge exchange.

• Recognize exemplary contributions through awards and honors.

Registration for Membership:

1. Eligibility:

o An architect holding a recognized degree or diploma in architecture.

o Registration with the Council of Architecture (CoA) is mandatory.

2. Membership Categories:

o Associate Member: For recent graduates or architects without sufficient professional

experience.

o Fellow Member: For architects with significant experience and contributions to the
field.

o Student Member: For architecture students enrolled in recognized institutions.

3. Application Process:

o Submit an application form with proof of qualifications and CoA registration.

o Pay the prescribed membership fee.

4. Membership Benefits:

o Access to professional resources, events, and publications.

o Networking opportunities with peers and industry leaders.

o Recognition and representation in architectural forums.