Architects are in charge of designing and structures we see around the world. From small houses to large city , architects need to create plans that are both practical and visually appealing, as well as showing how materials will be used and distributed within a building.
What does an architect do?
An architect is a professional who plans, designs, and oversees the construction of buildings. Architects work with clients, engineers, and other professionals to create safe, functional, and aesthetically pleasing structures.
Architects must have a bachelor’s degree in architecture from an accredited school of architecture. In addition to their formal education, many architects complete an internship before becoming licensed.
The duties of an architect vary depending on the type of project they are working on. For example, residential architects may spend more time meeting with clients to discuss their needs and wants for a new home than commercial architects who are more focused on the business aspects of a project. However, all architects typically perform the following tasks:
-Analyzing the needs of the client or user
-Developing preliminary concepts and sketches
-Creating drawings and models using computer-aided design (CAD) software
- presenting designs to clients or decision-makers
-Coordinating with engineers and other professionals during construction
-Inspecting completed projects
What is the typical career path of an architect?
Becoming an architect usually takes about seven years of full-time study after high school—four years in an accredited bachelor’s degree program and three years in an accredited professional degree program. Most states also require architects to complete a period of internship—usually two to three years—before granting licensure.
The first step toward becoming an architect is completing a professional degree accredited by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). As of 2016, there were nearly 200 schools with RIBA-accredited professional degree programs. A few states recognize alternative educational routes to chartership, but most require a four-year bachelor’s degree before allowing students to enter into a three-year professional degree program.
After completing a professional degree program, graduates must complete a period of internship—usually two to three years—before they can be chartered to practice architecture. During their internship, interns work under the supervision of chartered architects and gain practical experience in all aspects of the profession.
What skills are required to be an architect?
In order to be an architect, one must have many skills. They include:
-The ability to think spatially and see the big picture: Architects must be able to visualize how a space will look and function once it is built. They need to be able to think three-dimensionally and understand how people will use and move through a space.
-Creativity: Architects must be creative in order to design innovative and unique buildings that meet the functional needs of their clients while also being aesthetically pleasing.
-Technical skills: Architects must be proficient in using various computer aided design (CAD) software programs as well as hand drawing skills. They also need to have a strong understanding of building codes and regulations.
-Communication skills: Architects must be able to effectively communicate with their clients, colleagues, and contractors throughout the design and construction process. They need to be able to clearly explain their ideas verbally, in writing, and through drawings or models.
-Problem solving skills: Architects are constantly faced with challenges during the design process. They need to be able to come up with creative solutions that meet the needs of their clients while staying within the budget and constraints of the project.
-Project management skills: Architects must be able to oversee and coordinate the work of all the different professionals involved in a construction project. They need to be able to create detailed plans and schedules, and make sure that everyone is working together towards the common goal of completing the project on time and within budget.
How much does it cost to hire a architect and how long will it take to get a quote?
When it comes to hiring an architect, the cost can vary depending on the project. For smaller projects, you may be able to get a quote from an architect for a few hundred dollars. For larger projects, the cost can range into thousands. The time it takes to get a quote from an architect can also vary depending on the size and complexity of the project. For smaller projects, you may be able to get a quote within a week or two. Getting a quote from an architect for larger projects may take a few weeks.