Architect or project manager in Annecy?
Two construction professions, two different postures. This guide helps you pick the right profile for your Annecy renovation — including the 150 m² legal threshold.
Transparency: ORP is a project manager, not an architect. This guide objectively explains where our scope ends and where an architect becomes essential — so you don't overpay for a service that doesn't fit, or miss a legal requirement.
Architect vs project manager: comparison
Both professions are involved in design and works management in Annecy, but their status, posture and legal framework differ.
| Architect | Project manager | |
|---|---|---|
| Status | HMONP-qualified, registered with the Order of Architects, code of ethics | Building professional, no Order, project management contract |
| Design approach | Global architectural vision: volumes, facades, light, site integration | Pragmatic constructive solution: technical plans, feasibility, compliance |
| Interior layout | Spatial and architectural design of volumes | Layout: partitions, kitchen and bathroom placement, circulation, regulatory areas |
| Technical mastery | Varies by profile — often backed by an engineering office | Core skill: DTUs, current standards, construction regulations |
| Planning | Mandatory for permits > 150 m²; signs the filing | Permits ≤ 150 m², prior declarations, dealings with ABF and city hall |
| Site coordination | Optional mission (DET / OPC), often extra | Core mission: management, schedule, handover |
| Budget/schedule commitment | Varies by contract | Yes — contractual commitment |
| Best for | New build, extension > 150 m², project with strong architectural identity | Full renovation, redistribution, energy renovation, extension < 150 m² |
Choose an architect if…
- You're building new with high architectural demands
- You're planning a significant extension or upward addition
- You want an architectural signature and a strong aesthetic stance
Choose a project manager if…
- You're renovating an existing house or apartment
- There's structural work, redistribution, or energy renovation
- You want sharp technical expertise: DTUs, standards, execution
- You want a single point of contact with budget and schedule commitment
The 150 m² legal threshold
It's the clearest boundary between the two professions. For a private individual, hiring a registered architect is mandatory as soon as the post-works floor area — or footprint — exceeds 150 m². Below that, you have a choice: a project manager can design the project, file the building permit or prior declaration, and manage the site from end to end.
In Annecy and the surrounding area, most renovations — even heavy ones — fall within the project manager's scope. That's especially true for full energy renovation, interior redistribution, or restoring an existing building at equivalent surface area.
Frequently asked questions
Architect or project manager for your project?
Tell us about your Annecy renovation project. We'll honestly tell you whether a project manager is enough — or if you need an architect.
See also: Interior architect or PM? · Renovation in Annecy · Project manager in Annecy