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The Building Designer
The Building Designer
Building designers create the master plan for a home’s construction and work with home owners and builders to deliver their designs.
A great building designer has a clear vision for the house’s visual aspects, structure and development. She is detail-oriented and able to work effectively with clients to bring their dream build to life.
Meet the building designer: Debbie Johnson
HIA National President and Vice President, Debbie Johnson essentially has the same core role she had when she started out 50 years ago. She works alongside her clients using her design, construction and development knowledge to bring their projects to fruition. ‘This might be for a new home, renovation or a substantial development project,’ Debbie says. ‘I value the trust that my clients place in me and the creative opportunity that each project (large or small) provides.’
Debbie’s love of buildings started from as far back as she can remember. ‘It was initially architecture, but the feel and smell of hardwood and the overwhelming excitement of being on a building site has only ever increased over time,’ she says.
Looking to the future of the industry, Debbie says ‘I would give anyone, male or female, the same advice. Go where your passion takes you because this is where you’ll be happy and unavoidably you will excel.’ She suggests not being limited by stereotypes. ‘No one can hold you back when you find your happy place.’
Mentorship has been a key part of Debbie’s accomplished career pathway, which has culminated in her position as HIA National President in 2023. ‘People, mostly men, have been so generous with their time and their knowledge throughout my journey,’ she says. ‘I have always had an insatiable appetite to understand and question everything. The way we each learn is different, I’m sure I drove people around the twist questioning ‘the why’ behind everything,’ she laughs. ‘Perhaps they sensed the passion and the commitment that I feel for the industry and recognised that same emotion in themselves. It’s still the same for me today. We never stop learning - I love that most of all.’
Debbie's top 5 tips
Undertake every task (no matter how menial) to the best of your ability.
It speaks volumes to those around you about your attitude.
Look around and be aware.
If you’ve finished your work, don’t wait for further instructions – see who else needs a hand. You will be known as a team player.
The basics.
Be on time, dress appropriately, be present and accountable for work time. Talk and socialise on your time. While these are the basics, it’s surprising how often they are overlooked. Whether you are working for yourself or representing another’s business, these simple steps show that you take pride in yourself and value your employer.
Step up, not back, when opportunities are presented.
Be open to learning, ask questions, ask for help when necessary and don’t be afraid to admit your limitations. This demonstrates your ability to be honest and therefore trustworthy.
Discover what makes you tick.
If you tap into what you enjoy, you will excel, and it will always show. It will draw influential people and greater opportunities into your path.
Building designers in Australia: key statistics
Employed
13,963Median age
40Female share
30.1%What a building designer does
Creates detailed drawings and plans for construction, ensuring the building meets the client's needs and complies with building codes.
Assists clients with obtaining necessary permits and approvals for construction projects.
Works closely with clients to understand their vision and translate it into a practical design.
Advises builders on materials, specifications, and construction techniques to ensure a successful build.
Assists with project administration, such as monitoring the design and documentation.
How to get qualified
The training required to become a building designer varies around the country. Some states require building designers to hold a licence or registration. Within the licensing/registration schemes there are different classes of licence which reflect how complex the buildings is. Naturally, there are higher educational and work experience requirements for designers working on more complicated projects.
Entry level qualifications include the Diploma of Building Design or the Diploma of Architectural Technology. Mid-level qualifications include the Advanced Diploma of Building Design or Architectural Technology. A higher-level qualification such as a Bachelor of Building Design or Bachelor of Architecture may be required for higher level licences.
