The ARB has published new research into public perceptions of professionalism among UK architects.

The Architects Registration Board has published new research into public perceptions of professionalism among architects in the UK. It reveals that the public perceive architects to have high standards due to the extensive training required to join the profession, and that they want architects to demonstrate integrity, commitment and show empathy for the people who use the buildings and spaces they design.

According to the study, the public believe that having the right values – namely integrity, commitment, and empathy – are crucial for professionalism amongst architects. So is having the right abilities, which is seen to be especially important in a sector requiring strong creative and scientific skills. The research also finds that safety is a ‘hygiene factor’ for the public, who expect architects to behave safely as the impact of unsafe behaviour can be catastrophic. It also matters to the public that architects are highly qualified with proven technical knowledge, that they have insurance in place in case things go wrong, and that a Code of Conduct sets out how they must behave.

The study, which was conducted by the independent research agency Thinks Insight & Strategy, is being used to inform a review of the current ARB Code of Conduct and Practice for architects. ARB is currently planning to publish an updated Code for consultation later in 2024, and is hosting workshops with architects to discuss the research and develop the new Code.