Until the early 1970s, there were few Bahamian architects. Most of the architectural work was undertaken by foreign architects, some resident, some not. However in the early 1970s came a new attitude and many young Bahamians returned from studying Architecture abroad.

Upon their return, they found there was little respect for the professional architect in The Bahamas and no vehicle for training of developing the skills of younger aspirant architects. Furthermore there were many persons claiming to be architects who had no training, no professional standards and who were foisting themselves on to an unsuspecting public.

This group of architects, led by Rodney Brayen, Amos Ferguson and Anthony Jervis set up the IBA to be an organization specifically to deal with these issues. One of the main platforms was the legal recognition and registration of architects. This was realized in the Architects Registration Act 1994 and the setting up of the Professional Architects Board.