Throughout ancient and medieval history, most architectural design and construction was carried out by artisans—such as stone masons and carpenters—who rose to the role of master builders.

In Europe, the titles architect and engineer were primarily geographical variations that referred to the same person, often used interchangeably.

[10][11] In most developed countries only those qualified with an appropriate license, certification, or registration with a relevant body (often a government) may legally practice architecture.

[12] Representation of oneself as an architect through the use of terms and titles were restricted to licensed individuals by law, although in general, derivatives such as architectural designer were not legally protected.

Structural, mechanical, and electrical engineers are hired by the client or architect, who must ensure that the work is coordinated to construct the design.

The selection of appropriate materials and technology must be considered, tested, and reviewed at an early stage in the design to ensure there are no setbacks (such as higher-than-expected costs) which could occur later in the project.

Finally, at all times, the architect must report back to the client, who may have reservations or recommendations which might introduce further variables into the design.

Health and safety risks form a vital part of the current design, and in some jurisdictions, design reports and records are required to include ongoing considerations of materials and contaminants, waste management and recycling, traffic control, and fire safety.

[16] Virtual reality (VR) presentations are becoming more common for visualizing structural designs and interior spaces from the point-of-view perspective.

Examples of this include making provisions for low-energy transport, natural daylighting instead of artificial lighting, natural ventilation instead of air conditioning, pollution, and waste management, use of recycled materials, and employment of materials which can be easily recycled.

This contract is legally binding and covers a wide range of aspects, including the insurance and commitments of all stakeholders, the status of the design documents, provisions for the architect's access, and procedures for the control of the works as they proceed.

The architect may require that some elements be covered by a warranty which specifies the expected life and other aspects of the material, product, or work.

The architect will typically review contractor shop drawings and other submittals, prepare and issue site instructions, and provide Certificates for Payment to the contractor (see also Design-bid-build) which is based on the work done as well as any materials and other goods purchased or hired in the future.

In the United Kingdom and other countries, a quantity surveyor is often part of the team to provide cost consulting.

This demand for certification entails a high degree of risk; therefore, regular inspections of the work as it progresses on site is required to ensure that the design is in compliance itself as well as following all relevant statutes and permissions.

Professionals who engaged in the design and supervision of construction projects before the late 19th century were not necessarily trained in a separate architecture program in an academic setting.

Prior to modern times, there was no distinction between architects and engineers and the title used varied depending on geographical location.

They often carried the title of master builder[18][19] or surveyor after serving a number of years as an apprentice (such as Sir Christopher Wren).

Billings have traditionally been dependent on local economic conditions, but with rapid globalization, this is becoming less of a factor for large international firms.

Salaries could also vary depending on experience, position within the firm (i.e. staff architect, partner, or shareholder, etc.

A number of national professional organizations exist to promote career and business development in architecture.

The inaugural Pritzker Prize winner was Philip Johnson who was cited as having "50 years of imagination and vitality embodied in a myriad of museums, theatres libraries, houses gardens and corporate structures".

The Pritzker Prize has been awarded for forty-two straight editions without interruption, and there are now 22 countries with at least one winning architect.