Architecture feels like a profession that is going through a protracted crisis. Once the undisputed lead consultant on most major building projects, often acting as lead designer, contract administrator and effective project manager, it is increasingly rare today to see an architect anywhere near contract administration, or even on a building site.

In many respects these once dominant members of the construction industry’s hierarchy have been reduced to bit-part players, now best known for producing feasibility studies, planning applications and tender packages.