A New Zealand Registered Architect is registered with NZRAB. An architectural designer may hold a Design LBP licence. Compare the individual’s credentials, experience and design capability alongside the service offered.
Understand the professional titles
In New Zealand, architect and registered architect are protected titles in the context of building design. Registration is managed by the New Zealand Registered Architects Board. Architectural designer is a different description and does not, by itself, establish a person’s licence, qualifications or experience. Ask which individual will lead your project and check their credentials.
Who can design residential work?
Both registered architects and appropriately licensed architectural designers can undertake substantial residential design work. Restricted Building Work has specific requirements for who may carry out or supervise its design. A Design LBP, New Zealand Registered Architect or Chartered Professional Engineer may be authorised for relevant design work, subject to the applicable requirements and their competence.
What matters when choosing a practice?
Consider the quality of the work, understanding of your site, technical documentation, consultant coordination and the people you will work with. An architect’s registration does not automatically make one proposal the right fit, just as the description architectural designer does not establish that every designer has equivalent capability. Relevant experience and a clearly defined service are essential.
How Modal approaches the decision
Our work brings together design thinking, technical resolution and coordination from the early brief onwards. We explain who will be responsible for each part of the service and agree construction involvement separately where required. Review the Modal team, our projects and the proposed scope before deciding whether we are the right practice for you.
Related questions
- How do I choose the right architectural designer for my project?
- Should I speak to an architectural designer or a builder first?
- What should I prepare for my first architectural design meeting?
Further guidance
Regulatory guidance checked September 2026. Confirm the current requirements for your project.
