Civil engineers and principal designers are both involved in planning and designing buildings and structures. While both do similar functions, let us discuss below how they are different and unique in their scope.
Civil Engineers
In order for a project to be successful, it should involve some key personnel with specific knowledge and experience. Civil engineers are specialised in preliminary surveys, measurements, planning site activities, execution of projects at the sites, execution of structural design, quantity surveying, supervision, material procurement, billing, construction safety, and structural detailing of steel. All activities required for the physical construction of a property are carried out under the supervision of the civil engineer. The civil engineer is the one who turns a design into reality. Civil engineers will be guided by the principal designer’s outlines and dimensions.
Principal Designer
The principal designer is responsible for the overall planning, structural drawing, architectural designing, utilisation of space, application of building bye-laws, application of principles of science, interior design, aesthetics of the environment, and appearance. Principal designers use their creativity to incorporate into building designs. A good principal designer will always consider the practicality of the design so that it can be built more economically and quickly. Principal designers initiate the project through the architect’s drafts. The principal designer makes the floor plans while the civil engineer chooses the material used so that it can function as intended.
The function of a principal designer is to
focus more on the spatial functionality and aesthetics, laying more emphasis on
artistry, look, feel, and functionality of the design. The civil engineer, on
the other hand, concentrates on structural elements of the design, making sure
that the structure can endure severe conditions. While some of the duties of
civil engineers and principal designers may overlap, a good relationship
between both professionals will make the construction job more effective and
successful.
