Master Builder

In its original meaning, a master builder undertakes the construction planning, management and execution of construction work of all kinds. In Austria and Switzerland, the master builder is still an official job title today. In the 19th century, master builders were responsible for a structure from design to completion. As a rule, they differed from architects in that, in addition to usually having their own design studio, they also had their own construction company.

Master builders are characterized by their practical and theoretical expertise. In the past, master builders were skilled stonemasons, bricklayers, carpenters, joiners or plasterers who, after their apprenticeship years, went on the road and produced masterpieces in order to be able to wear the title of master builder. With the advent of building trade schools, today's technical colleges, further education was mandatory to obtain a master builder title.