What does it take to become an architect guide, Architecture profession tips, Online building designer advice
What Does It Take To Become an Architect?
17 Dec 2021
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What Does It Take To Become an Architect Guide
Architecture is a field for people who have unique ideas about how to design buildings where people are healthy and happy. An architect is a master craftsman who can create both private homes and commercial buildings. They typically work with professionals in other fields like interior design, urban planning, and structural engineering. Their mission is to design and build homes, offices, stores, and recreational facilities that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional.
Some architects work on a wide range of construction projects, while others specialize in a particular type of structure, such as apartment complexes, cultural centers or suburban malls. There are also a few who specialize in restoring, preserving, and improving historic structures.
Architects point out that economic downturns have a significant impact on their profession since the amount of work drops, so patience and perseverance are essential. It’s also worth noting that architecture isn’t as lucrative as, say, law or medicine, although it requires similar levels of education and expertise.
At the same time, the profession’s devotion to lifelong learning keeps it interesting and exciting. Plus, at the end of the project, you get a tangible work product that can last generations.
What Does an Architect Do?
Architects are certified professionals who have received extensive training in the science and art of architectural design. They are in charge of designing and constructing buildings for various purposes. Architects have to make sure that the buildings they design are not just visually appealing but also functional and safe. Additionally, they must take into account economic aspects and fulfil the demands of the people or organizations that commissioned their services.
Typical responsibilities of an architect include the following:
- Designing structures that meet the client’s requirements;
- Overseeing quality and functionality of their projects;
- Creating blueprints;
- Producing preliminary studies such as cost analysis, environmental impact estimates and land studies;
- Investigating and adhering to city ordinances, zoning laws, building codes and other regulations that apply to their projects;
- Creating digital models of structures and experimenting with various approaches;
- Getting construction contracts and maintaining effective communication with construction workers;
- Visiting construction sites to monitor project progress;
- While on-site, architects also have a duty of care to make sure that the health and safety of other people aren’t put at risk and must familiarize themselves with laws that apply in the area where the project is taking place by consulting resources like https://www.legalexpert.co.uk.
Types of Architects
While there are different types of architects for different sectors, all architects have the same goal: to plan and design all aspects of a construction.
Listed below are the most popular categories of architects currently in the workforce:
Technical architect
Technical architects mostly focus on the structure’s technical aspects, such as thermal efficiency. They research and adjust construction mechanics and details to ensure that structures comply with local construction standards and laws.
Planning architect
This type of architect is usually hired to advise on a project’s compliance with local and national rules. They perform tasks like outlining a project’s legal constraints and submitting it to relevant authorities to get approval.
Site architect
A site architect is in charge of monitoring every aspect of a construction project from beginning to end. They perform tasks like procuring construction contracts, providing instruction to workers and ensuring the safety and quality of the structure.
Design architect
As the name suggests, a design architect focuses on the design of a structure. They perform tasks like creating the initial outline, producing blueprints and making adjustments to meet the client’s requirements. They’re also involved in choosing the materials used and overseeing construction.
How to Become an Architect
Earn a bachelor’s degree
Aspiring architects are typically required to complete a five-year Bachelor of Architecture program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB). Accredited programs are currently offered at 139 institutions across the world.
Take part in an internship program
Each state requires prospective architects to complete an internship program prior to becoming eligible for licensure. These internship programs usually take three years and give participants valuable hands-on experience.
Obtain your license
To become a licensed architect in your state, you must first pass the Architect Registration Examination. Most states demand a bachelor’s degree plus an internship to take the exam. The exam has seven parts and it’s either pass or fail.
Apply for jobs
Once you get your license, you can start applying for jobs. Depending on your preferences and current job market, you can opt to work for a firm, private practice or continue in the specialty you studied during your internship.
Earn professional certifications
The NAAB also offers national certification that you can get in addition to the Architect Registration Exam. It’s not required, but it will provide you with more career opportunities.
Master’s degree
For some architects, acquiring a graduate degree in an architecture-related field is a logical next step in their professional development. There are various NAAB-accredited Master of Architecture programs to choose from. This is a good option for those interested in switching careers to architecture but don’t have a bachelor’s degree in architecture or architects who want to work in research or education.
Skills You Need to Be a Successful Architect
Architects are in charge of many aspects of building construction and require a mix of hard and soft skills.
Math and engineering skills
Architects are primarily concerned with the design of a structure, but they must also be knowledgeable in the fields of mathematics and engineering as they apply to architecture.
Leadership skills
Architects are often also involved in the actual construction of the buildings they design. This requires strong leadership skills because it can entail everything from supervising teams to ensuring that all workers understand and adhere to the goals of the project.
Communication skills
As one might expect, architects are not the only ones involved in a construction project. Besides the clients, you will need to work with structural engineers, construction managers, surveyors, contractors, lawyers and authorities. Communicating effectively with all of these individuals, so they feel their needs and opinions are understood and appreciated is a critical aspect of the job. It can often determine whether or not a project is completed successfully.
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