What is an architect-Education vs. Experience

During recessions and slowdowns in the national or global economy the general public takes a rather critical eye as to what we do as architects. I often feel that when something gets built it is the result of many people who care nothing about architecture and more about getting something built.

Recently I made a comment regarding a renovation project which I was familiar to someone who was trained in architecture. This person was obviously educated. They were not directly involved in the construction of new buildings . Their area of expertise was  as a historic researcher which was in the business of providing information to restore a building. My remark that the architect  for my family home was, let say , Mr. Architect "X". Their response "yes I know who he was but all the details and research was done by Mr. Y, and while not a licensed architect was the real designer!" In other words, the architect in this persons mind was relegated to being a technician who could could only do the contract drawings and meet with the client. This conversation I am sure is repeated many times today in our country and what we have is that 70% of all buildings are done without the benefit of an architect.

Although the research and investigation of historic buildings takes talent from many specialties, it is the architect which should be the leader. Lately we have moved away from the personality of the Prima Donas. The dichotomy which I believe has never been clarified since the death of Frank L. Wright, LeCorbu, and Mies is the fact that the creativity which an architect brings to a project is a spirit. If you will "an Elan". 

 Even for architects it is a difficult walk to produce buildings and spaces  in which the greatness of the effort is measured by future generations. We would all want our effort to be enduring. However, everyone who puts six years of schooling, three years of apprenticeship and take an exam needs and should receive the respect of the public. To diminish this effort is to let the novice do the heart surgery. I would hope the society of this country and others would be willing to recognize the unique and contributory affect of experience and education combined in a professional. I find it difficult to accept the interpretation of our profession by those that would want to diminish our creative and careful efforts to make the environment a place which design can enhance the lives of so many people.