Jobs, Careers and Occupations

Architects

Architects Nature of Work

Architects conceptualize, plan and develop designs for the construction and renovation of commercial, institutional and residential buildings. Architectural firms, private corporations and governments, employ architects or they may be self-employed.

Architects Work Conditions

Architects usually work in a comfortable environment. Most of architect’s time is spent in offices consulting with clients, developing reports and drawings, and working with other architects and engineers. Architects need to keep up with changing trends in the construction industry and the community. Architects often visit construction sites to review the progress of projects. They have considerable contact with the public.

Architects Personal Requirements

• able to analyze problems logically
• creative flair
• good communication skills
• interest in design

Architects Employment Requirements

• A bachelor's degree from an accredited school of architecture
• A master's degree in architecture may be required
• Completion of a three-year internship under the supervision of a registered architect
• Completion of the architect registration examination
• Registration with the association of architects

Architects Duties and Tasks

Architects may perform the following tasks:

• discuss designs and cost estimates with clients and others involved in the project, including engineers, quantity surveyors, landscape architects and town planners
• discuss requirements of clients or builders and prepare a brief
• obtain necessary approvals from authorities
• prepare sketch drawings, production drawings and detailed drawings. These can be undertaken by hand or by using computer-aided design (CAD) equipment, and combine structural, mechanical and artistic elements
• prepare specifications and contract documents, specifying building materials and construction equipment
• observe, inspect and monitor building work, to make sure that it is progressing according to the contract and specifications
• evaluate projects once they are completed and occupied

Architects may also be involved in project feasibility studies, strategic asset investigations, heritage studies, urban planning, interior design or landscape design.

Architects Example Titles

• Chief Architect
• Consulting Architect
• Residential Architect

Architects Related Occupations

• Building Contractors
• Civil Engineers
• Construction Project Managers
• Interior Designers
• Landscape Architects
• Naval architects
• Structural engineers
• Architectural Drafters
• Property Developers
• Quantity Surveyors
• Surveyors
• Town Planners

Architecture Related Industries

• Construction
• Design
• Engineering
• Real Estate

Salon

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The Guardian

Constructive criticism: the week in architecture The Guardian The Stone is a 36-metre-high shard of mirrored glass intended for Enfield Park, apparently designed by Swedish architects Råk Arkitektur. As the name suggests, it was inspired by the rock from which King Arthur pulled Excalibur. and more »

Tempe architect Mark Vinson receives AIA honor Phoenix Business Journal Tempe City Architect Mark Vinson has received one of the highest honors bestowed by the American Institute of Architects. Vinson will receive the Fellowship medal at the AIA 2012 National Convention and Design Exposition May 17 in Washington. and more »