The Work

A Conservation Architect is a fully qualified Architect with additional Conservation Accreditation from the RIAI. 

Works to be carried out on any building that is classified as a ‘Protected Structure’ or in an ‘Architectural Conservation Area’ requires the advice of an architect with skills in conservation.

Protected Structures are designated by the Planning Authority as a buildings of International, National, Regional or Local importance.

A Conservation Architect can advise on he general condition of the building, the nature and extent of the works to be undertaken or the category of the building. Some conservation architects have specialist expertise in particular building types - churches, for example or whether specialist conservation input is needed for a particular aspect of the work, such as the stonework.

The services of Conservation Architects are employed by the Planning Departments of Local Authorites or organisations such as The Heritage Council or the Irish Georgian Society.

This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:

Creative

Creative people are drawn to careers and activities that enable them to take responsibility for the design, layout or sensory impact of something (visual, auditory etc). They may be atrracted to the traditional artistic pursuits such as painting, sculpture, singing, or music. Or they may show more interest in design activities, such as architecture, animation, or craft areas, such as pottery and ceramics.

Creative people use their personal understanding of people and the world they live in to guide their work. Creative people like to work in unstructured workplaces, enjoy taking risks and prefer a minimum of routine.

Investigative

The Investigative person will usually find a particular area of science to be of interest. They are inclined toward intellectual and analytical activities and enjoy observation and theory. They may prefer thought to action, and enjoy the challenge of solving problems with sophiscticated technology. These types prefer mentally stimulating environments and often pay close attention to developments in their chosen field.

Realist

Realists are usually interested in 'things' - such as buildings, mechanics, equipment, tools, electronics etc. Their primary focus is dealing with these - as in building, fixing, operating or designing them. Involvement in these areas leads to high manual skills, or a fine aptitude for practical design - as found in the various forms of engineering.

Realists like to find practical solutions to problems using tools, technology and skilled work. Realists usually prefer to be active in their work environment, often do most of their work alone, and enjoy taking decisive action with a minimum amount of discussion and paperwork.

To become a Conservation Architect you must first get a degree from a recognised school of Architecture followed by two years of approved practical experience and an examination in professional practice. Once you have your degree, you will be eligible to become an Associate member of the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland (RIAI). RIAI Accreditation is recognised by the Irish Government and EU legislation. After a minimum of two years of approved experience, at least one of which must be in an EU country, you can take your Examination in Professional Practice. You are then eligible to apply for Registered Membership of the RIAI. 

Training & Development Pathways

FET Centre PLC Courses: Architectural Design & Technology, Pre University Architecture, Interior Architecture & Design NFQ level 5-6 Search FET PLC Courses 

Higher Education CAO Entry: Architecture & Architectural Technology, Architecture, Heritage Studies, Ancient History and Archaeology/History of Art and Architecture, Interior Architecture 7 design NFQ level 7-8 Search CAO Courses  

Professional Development 

Postgraduate Study: Building Repair & Conservation - Applied, Retrofit Conservation & Sustainability, Architectural Practice at NFQ level 9

There are three Grades of Accreditation for Conservation Architects, Grade I being the highest and Grade III the basic entry level to the System. An RIAI Member or Practice can progress up through the Grades by acquiring additional qualifications, experience and/or staff and applying for Accreditation at the higher Grade. Full details of the RIAI Conservation Accrediation System are available here.

It is the responsibility of any professional to ensure that his or her professional skills are kept up to date. Scientific knowledge, technology and the law, for example, keep changing. So you will be expected to have a continuing involvement in courses and personal study throughout your working life.

Last Updated: April, 2023

Salary Range (thousands per year)* €28k - €90k

Salaries vary based on employer, location, experience, duties, and role.

Data Source(s):
CPL/ Morgan McKinley/ Sigmar/ Brightwater/ Clark

Last Updated: August, 2024

* The lower figures typically reflect starting salaries. Higher salaries are awarded to those with greater experience and responsibility. Positions in Dublin sometimes command higher salaries.

View Salary information from Indeed.ie
Note: data not aways available

This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2023).

The annual average employment growth was above average for this occupation, although employment levels declined marginally between 2021 and 2022. New employment permits issued in 2022 related to quantity surveyors and issues with recruitment of quantity surveyors were also evident in both the Skills for Growth and Recruitment Agency Survey data.

The supply of quantity surveyors has increased since 2016, with 336 awards in 2021 in higher education. The demand for these skills is expected to be sustained in the coming years, although the tasks may be incorporated into other occupations e.g. structural engineer. With supply increasing, issues with recruitment may lessen in future years. Demand for architects and town planners is likely to continue, although the data does not currently point to issues in relation to sourcing suitably qualified personnel for these roles. 

• The Institute of Conservation (ICON)

  • 1.5 Lafone House The Leathermarket Weston Street London SE1 3ER
  • +44 (0)20 3142 6799
  • [email protected]
  • Click Here

• Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland

  • 8 Merrion Square, Dublin 2
  • (01) 676 1703
  • [email protected]
  • Click Here

• The Heritage Council

  • Church Lane, Kilkenny
  • (056) 777 0777
  • [email protected]
  • Click Here

• OPW - The Office of Public Works

  • Head Office Jonathan Swift Street Trim Co. Meath C15 NX36
  • (046) 942 6000
  • [email protected]
  • Click Here

• National Monuments Service

  • Department of Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht Custom House Dublin 1
  • (01) 888 2178
  • [email protected]
  • Click Here