A Challenge

Regarding Jonathan Hendry's apparent concern for the work being undertaken by architectural consultants (Big Fish Little Fish, AJ 20.12.07), are we really to believe that only architects trained to RIBA Part 3 are qualified to design buildings? I have no doubt that Hendry is a very able designer, but I (as an architectural designer) question his attitude towards healthy competition.
If he believes he has a right to win projects over other firms simply because he has qualified as an architect then he is somewhat deluded. There is a great pool of talent out there and it seems a shame to disregard designers without the Part 3 qualification.
Give the clients some credit – they will be looking at more than just cost before employing an architect/designer. RIBAbranded qualification is no golden ticket to projects, so maybe its time to raise your game.

Darren Henderson, Anders Roberts Architects, Christchurch, Dorset