When we embark on the design and construction of a single-family house, a new construction new construction or a precast concrete house, it is normal that a fundamental question arises: what role does each professional play in the process?
At Fran Cortés Arquitectos, architects in Madrid, we want to clear that doubt in a clear way, because understanding the differences between quantity surveyor and architect helps you to plan your project better and avoid surprises in the middle of the way.
What do we mean by architect and quantity surveyor?
In Spain, the term aparejador is traditionally used to refer to the professional who today is officially called technical architect or building engineer. Even so, in everyday language it is still common to speak of quantity surveyor as a synonym for technical architect.
The architect is the one who conceptualizes and projects the spaces, while the quantity surveyor or technical architect is in charge of ensuring that the design is correctly materialized in the construction site. Although they work towards the same goal, their training, roles and responsibilities are different.
Training: ideas vs. technical execution
The architect’s university studies in architecture last approximately 5 to 6 years, and include design, urban planning, structures, regulations and aesthetics, in addition to the final project and, in many cases, a qualifying master’s degree.
On the other hand, the Quantity Surveyor or Technical Architect is trained in the Degree in Building Engineering or Technical Architecture, with a focus on the technical management of construction, quality control, safety and organization of work, and usually lasts 4 years.
This difference in training translates into complementary roles within a construction project.
What does an architect do?
As a design team, the architect is in charge of defining what your project will look like in functional and aesthetic terms. What we do includes:
– Conceive the general idea and translate it into drawings and technical documents.
– Design the distribution, shape and relationship between spaces.
– Choose efficient and harmonious materials and construction solutions.
– Drafting the necessary projects to apply for urban planning licenses.
– Coordinate engineering teams and other technical collaborators.
– To supervise the work from the facultative direction so that the final result is faithful to the project.
In short, the architect designs and directs the project from a technical and creative point of view.
What are the functions of a quantity surveyor or technical architect?
The quantity surveyor takes the project designed by the architect and ensures that it is
– Control that the work is carried out in accordance with the approved technical documentation.
– Supervise the quality of materials and construction processes.
– Manage health and safety on site.
– Coordinate teams, deadlines and budgets.
– Issue certifications and technical documentation with legal validity.
The contribution of the quantity surveyor is especially relevant in new construction projects, complex reforms or when we want to ensure maximum technical control of the execution.
Why is it important to know the differences between quantity surveyor and architect?
In many projects, especially those of new construction or renovations with structural changes, it is essential to know the differences between the quantity surveyor and the architect, since the regulations require both professionals: the architect as designer and construction manager and the quantity surveyor as the director of the work execution.
This duality ensures that design and construction meet both technical and legal criteria. Even when an alteration is minor, and in some cases the quantity surveyor can take on complete functions, it is advisable to evaluate which is the most appropriate combination according to the complexity and the requirements of the municipality concerned.
Key differences between quantity surveyor and architect
| Appearance | Architect | Quantity Surveyor / Technical Architect |
|---|---|---|
| Main focus | Project design, conception and planning | Technical execution and control of the work |
| Training | Degree in Architecture + qualifying master’s degree | Degree in Technical Architecture / Building Engineering |
| Role in the project | Defines what the building will look like and how it will be used | Ensures proper construction |
| Architectural design | Yes, it is its main function | No |
| Drafting of major construction projects | Yes | No (except for minor works according to regulations) |
| Construction management | Construction supervision (DO) | Construction execution management (DEO) |
| Quality control | General supervision | Daily and detailed technical control |
| Budget management | Estimates and consistency with design | Cost control, measurements and certifications |
| Health and safety on site | General supervision | Elaboration and control of the security plan |
| Relationship with guilds and construction company | General Coordination | Daily technical coordination |
| On-site presence | Periodic visits | Continuous or very frequent presence |
| Legal Liability | Urban and project compliance | Correct constructive execution |
| When it is mandatory | Always in new construction and complex projects | Mandatory in new construction and many refurbishments |
| Customer value | Functional, aesthetic and legal project | Peace of mind, technical control and quality |
In practice, architect and quantity surveyor do not compete, they complement each other. The architect thinks the project and gives it meaning; the technical architect makes sure that this meaning is not lost when the work begins.
Fran Cortés Arquitectos, quantity surveyors in Madrid to supervise your project
In Fran Cortés Arquitectos we are very clear about the differences between quantity surveyor and architect, and we have both professionals to supervise each phase of your project with a technical, rigorous and close approach.
We are specialists in design execution supervision in Madrid and we make sure that what has been designed is executed exactly as planned, complying with regulations, deadlines and qualities from the first day of construction.
If you want to hire a quantity surveyor in Madrid, Malaga, Alicante or the Balearic Islands, in our architectural firm we have the right professional. Contact us at and tell us how we can help you.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are architect and quantity surveyor the same thing?
Not exactly. The architect has a broader training in design and project planning. The quantity surveyor (technical architect) specializes in the management and control of the execution of that project.
Do I need an architect and quantity surveyor to build a house?
In most new construction projects, yes: the architect designs and directs the work, the quantity surveyor supervises its execution according to the project.
Can a quantity surveyor sign projects?
It depends on the type of work and the municipal regulations. In minor works without structural affectation, it can make technical projects and direct the work, but for major works it is usual that documents signed by an architect are required.
