The RIBA expects to invite the first architects to join its Register of Conservation Architects in the spring, ahead of an operational launch of the register this summer as plans are progressing as a result of RIBA Council’s decision to commit to the new register at its December meeting.
The register will enable those looking to commission work on heritage buildings find architects with the specific skills and experience they require, encompassing all aspects of historic building conservation, repair and maintenance.
Recognising the distinct nature of conservation work, and moving away from a ‘one size fits all’ approach, the Register will operate upon three levels of membership, which also provide an incremental process of accreditation for those who are in the early phases of establishing their careers in building conversation:
Conservation Registrant (CR): For those working on the repair, maintenance, alteration and refurbishment of heritage buildings, e.g. unlisted buildings in Conservation Areas, locally important historic buildings and the general pre 1919 building stock.
Conservation Architect (CA): Suitable for those working on Grade II listed buildings, regionally important historic buildings and in sensitive historic environments.
Specialist Conservation Architect (SCA): For those working on historic buildings of outstanding national importance, such as Grade I and II* listed buildings or scheduled monuments, and with highly specialist skills in one or more aspects of conservation.
Membership of the Register is open to any ARB registered architect, whether directly in charge of conservation projects or working in a policy capacity, who meets international standards of conservation, and who can demonstrate the appropriate level of competence in the fourteen specialist skill areas detailed in the ICOMOS Training and Education Guidelines.
Ruth Reed, President of the RIBA said: “The RIBA is fully committed to the conservation of our historic built environment. In setting up this Register, the Institute intends to strengthen the profession’s credibility and standing within conservation; establishing an accessible and progressive system to benefit both architects and those commissioning work on heritage buildings is of significant importance.”
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