How is the architect's role different from consultant roles in PDD projects?

• A. The architect leads the design and coordination, while consultants (structural, MEP, civil) provide specialized expertise and coordinated documentation.
• B. The architect handles only aesthetics; consultants handle all technical work.
• C. Consultants lead design; architect handles permits.
• D. There is no distinction; everyone does everything.

Answer: (A)

In PDD projects, the architect is the primary designer and coordinator who maintains the overall design intent and leads the collaboration across all disciplines. Consultants—such as structural, MEP, and civil engineers—bring specialized technical expertise and develop their own documentation that fits into the integrated construction documents under the architect’s coordination. This arrangement ensures the design stays coherent while each specialty contributes its detailed, code-compliant work.

That’s why the selected option is correct: it captures the architect’s leadership of design and coordination, with consultants providing specialized work and coordinated documentation. The other ideas misstate roles—architects aren’t limited to aesthetics, consultants don’t lead design, and there is a real distinction in responsibilities.