Architect or architectural technologist in Quebec, which one to choose?
- coraliefortin076
- Jun 12
- 4 min read
Updated: Jul 15
Building or renovating a house, cottage, or garage is an exciting but complex undertaking. Whether you're building your dream home in the great outdoors, redesigning an existing living space, or designing a garage tailored to your needs, it's essential to surround yourself with the right professionals. Among the experts who can assist you, two titles frequently come up: architect and architectural technologist.
But which one should you choose to successfully complete your project? This article offers a comprehensive analysis to guide your decision, taking into account Quebec's specificities, costs, legal obligations, and, above all, your needs. And of course, the Plan Maison Québec team is always at your side to translate your ideas into concrete, personalized, and compliant plans.
A difference in training and mandate
1 ) The architect: a highly qualified project manager
In Quebec, an architect is a professional who has graduated from a university school of architecture, often after completing a master's degree. They are then admitted to the Ordre des architectes du Québec (OAQ) after a two-year internship and passing a rigorous exam.
Their role goes beyond simply designing plans: they consider the space as a whole. They integrate aesthetics, sustainability, environmental standards, and municipal regulations. Their mandate also includes coordinating various stakeholders (engineers, contractors, municipalities) and overseeing construction sites.
In short, an architect is often required for large-scale projects, multi-family dwellings, commercial buildings, or construction on specific sites (flood zones, forests, steep slopes, etc.).
2 ) The architectural technologist: a versatile technical expert
Architectural technologists, on the other hand, are college graduates (DEC in Architectural Technology) with practical and technical training focused on the creation of detailed plans, compliance with building codes, and the use of CAD software.
Although their practice is regulated by the Ordre des technologues professionnels du Québec (OTPQ), membership is not mandatory. They are fully qualified to design plans for single-family homes, cottages, garages, and residential renovations, as long as the project does not fall into the categories legally reserved for architects.
This is where Plan Maison Québec comes in, with a team of experienced technologists capable of offering you a turnkey, personalized, compliant service that is more affordable than that of an architect.
What the law says in Quebec
Since the Architects Act was reformed in 2020, certain types of buildings require the services of an architect:
Public buildings (schools, hospitals)
Residential buildings with more than three stacked dwellings
Commercial or industrial buildings with more than two stories or 600 m²
For all other types of residential construction (single-family homes, cottages, detached or attached garages), plans can be perfectly drawn up by an architectural technologist, making Plan Maison Québec's services ideal for most residential projects.
What Your Wallet Says: Comparing Rates
The cost of services varies greatly depending on the professional chosen, the complexity of the project and the type of support required.
1 ) Pricing an architect
An architect typically charges a percentage of the total cost of the project (between 8% and 12%), or a high hourly rate ($150/hour or more). This rate usually includes design, regulatory monitoring, contractor bids, and site supervision.
2 ) Pricing for an Architectural Technologist
Architectural technologists offer a more accessible approach. Their fees often range from 2% to 7% of the project cost, or an hourly rate of $50 to $100 per hour.
Plan Maison Québec offers transparent and affordable packages to suit all budgets. You can obtain customized plans without sacrificing quality or compliance.
Price comparison table
Criteria | Architect | Architectural Technologist |
Required training | University Masters + OAQ internship | College diploma (DEC in architecture) |
Mandatory membership | Yes (OAQ) | No (OTPQ recommended) |
Eligible projects | All (including public and complex) | Simple residential (houses, cottages, etc.) |
Average hourly rate | $150/h and up | $50 to $100/h |
Percentage on work | 8% to 12% | 2% to 7% |
Ideal for | Large-scale projects, unique design | Typical residential projects |
Availability at PMQ | No | Yes |
What are your needs?
Your choice depends largely on the nature and objectives of your project.
1 ) For a large-scale project
If you're building a residential building, a structure with major urban planning constraints, or a construction project in a sensitive area, the intervention of an architect is necessary. This professional is also a good choice if you're looking for a highly artistic design or advanced architectural innovation.
2 ) For a typical residential project
In most cases—whether it's a new home, an extension, a garage, a cottage, or an interior/exterior renovation—an architectural technologist is the perfect fit for your needs. They'll be able to design detailed plans, optimize spaces, comply with building codes, and ensure your documents are properly submitted for building permits.
Why choose Plan Maison Québec?
Plan Maison Québec is a leading provider of residential plan design in Quebec. Thanks to our team of experienced technologists, we offer a complete solution: plan design, analysis of your needs, adaptation to site constraints, permit processing, and practical advice for your project.
Our strength lies in our ability to listen to your needs and offer personalized, fast, and affordable service perfectly suited to Quebec's urban and rural realities.
We have helped hundreds of clients across Quebec build their dream home, transform a family cottage, or optimize a garage for greater functionality. All this, without breaking their budget.
Conclusion: architect or architectural technologist of Quebec
The choice between an architect or architectural technologist of Quebec will depend on the scope of your project, your design requirements, your budget, and legal requirements. For the majority of residential projects in Quebec, an architectural technologist is a wise, efficient, and economical option.
If you're looking for an experienced, attentive team specializing in house, cottage, or garage plans, Plan Maison Québec is your best ally. Our technical expertise, knowledge of Quebec standards, and attention to detail are at your service to transform your ideas into concrete plans, ready for implementation.
Ready to start your dream project?
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