Architecture 645: Architectural Practice in Canada

Study Guide

Unit 8: Architectural Practice Around the World

Commentary

Unit 8 explores topics that extend beyond the Canadian context such as systems around the world for the regulation of architects and buildings. The comparison provides a deeper understanding of the Canadian professional and regulatory systems and an awareness of international opportunities. The unit also discusses specific international opportunities such as architectural design competitions for architects.

Perhaps not surprisingly, globalization has affected architecture, bringing new competition and challenges to Canada’s architects (CHOP 1.1.1, p. 2). Most nations have some form of professional or legal organization for their architects; some years ago, the Union Internationale des Architectes (UIA), with the Catalan Association of Architects (COAC), developed a matrix comparing the profession and its organization and regulation worldwide. While some of the information is now out of date, it still provides a useful global snapshot of the profession.

CHOP 1.1.6 introduces the UIA and lists international organizations with which it works, noting that RAIC represents Canada within the UIA (p. 1). CHOP 1.1.4 introduces mutual recognition agreements, including the role played by CALA in negotiating these.

Learning Outcomes

After completing Unit 8, you should be able to

  1. Identify various regulatory systems for architecture and buildings around the world.
  2. Describe the status of Mutual Recognition Agreements between the architectural profession in Canada and the profession in other countries.
  3. Identify opportunities for practice abroad and international competitions.
  4. Describe the Union Internationale des Architectes, its purpose, programs, and services.

Required Readings

  1. CHOP (2009): Chapter 1.1.6, International Architectural Organizations
  2. Architectural Practice Around the World (survey)
  3. UIA Accord on Recommended International Standards of Professionalism in Architectural Practice
  4. Architectural competitions:

Resources

  1. Canadian Trade Commissioner Service (a useful guide to practicing architecture abroad)
  2. Global Affairs Canada, Trade in Services
  3. Canadian Architectural Licensing Authorities
  4. CALA Mutual Recognition Agreements

Self-Study Questions

Work through the following self-study questions. Use the Course Discussion Forum to post comments/questions.

  1. What is title protection?
  2. What is Exclusive Scope of Practice in your jurisdiction?
  3. When are non-professionals allowed to practice architecture?
  4. What is the meaning of self-regulation? Which countries are self-regulated, and which are regulated by the state?
  5. What is the percentage of architects per capita in Canada and the United States? How does this practice differ from other countries such as England, Australia, China, Egypt, Turkey, Romania, and Indonesia?
  6. What are the different types of competitions in Canada? What are the benefits and drawbacks of architectural competitions? What is the role of the professional advisor?
  7. Describe the purpose and programs of the UIA. What does practice in a host nation mean? What is the UIA recommended form of practice in another country?
  8. What is a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA)? What MRAs do Canadian architects benefit from?

Assessment

Complete and submit Assignment 3: The Practice of Architecture and Canadian Civic Politics – Understanding Architectural Practice in Canada in Relation to Other Countries.

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