C Cultural heritage building is an important cultural heritage that must be maintained by doing conservation. The architect became one of the parties that played a role in the implementation of the conservation. Currently conservation of cultural heritage buildings is being intensively carried out in Indonesia, but in-depth research has not been found that focuses on discussing the role of architects and the substance that must be owned by architects in working on building conservation. The purpose of this study is to find out the extent of the role of architects and the substance that must be studied by architects when facing conservation of cultural heritage buildings. The method used is explorative qualitative, which begins with finding literature data sourced from books, journals, articles, legislation and videos. Then the researchers collected interview data with several expert practitioners who were experienced in the conservation of cultural heritage buildings. After all data is collected, the researcher makes interpretations to obtain the results of the study. From the research it was found that architects play a role in the recording and documenting stages, data analysis, making conservation planning decisions, making working drawings and RAB, as well as conducting field investigations. To perform its role, the substance that must be possessed by the architect is style, basic knowledge of structures and materials, the significance of buildings, building economics, architectural drawing techniques. With this research, it is expected to be useful for architect and architect education practitioners to find out the role of architects and the substance that must be possessed when facing conservation of cultural heritage buildings.