Architect

France in 2000 year (XXI century). Building Site. France, paper card. Русский: Карточка серии "Франция в 2000 году" - Работа архитектора 2000 года: электрическое строительство. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Architects design houses, office buildings, schools, factories, airport terminals, and other structures. Architects consider a variety of factors such as feasibility, cost, safety, adherence to code, and overall appearance. They can be involved with a construction project from the initial design phase to the completion of the structure and beyond.

Typically, architects will meet with a client in order to gain an understanding of the client’s goals for the project. Architects then create a detailed set of drawings for the client that show the general shape and layout of a project as well as many of the more specific items such as electrical, heating, cooling and plumbing systems. The project as a whole must fit within the budget specified by the client. An architect may need to revise plans several times before the client is satisfied with a proposal.

Once a client gives approval to the initial proposal, architects then work on developing final construction plans. These plans usually give very specific information with regard to building systems, materials to be used, exterior landscaping, and interior furnishings. Additionally, architects must adhere to local fire, zoning, and handicap accessibility codes. Much of the work of an architect is done using computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) software.

After detailed drawings and specifications are created, the project usually goes out to bid. When the contract is awarded to a construction company, work can proceed. Architects usually are involved in the bidding and construction process.

Education and Training

In the U.S., architects need the following education and training:

• a 5-year Bachelor of Architecture degree (some schools offer 2 to 4 year Master of Architecture programs for students with undergraduate degrees in related fields)
• a Master of Architecture degree is helpful for candidates who wish to pursue jobs in research, teaching or certain specialties.

An individual or architectural firm cannot provide architectural services until a license is obtained. An architectural firm may have unlicensed architects on staff as long as a licensed architect is available to take full responsibility for all work. Individuals without licenses are usually students and new graduates working as interns. In order to obtain licensing, individuals must have a professional degree in architecture, practical training, and a passing grade on the Architect Registration Examination (ARE).

On the Job

Architects usually work indoors in an office environment. Much of an architect’s time is spent in meetings with clients and other architects as well as on the computer generating reports and drawings. In addition, architects often make trips to the construction site in order to gather information and check on the progress of construction.

Math on the Job

An architect needs a thorough understanding of geometry. An architect visualizes objects and layouts in three dimensions. This requires an ability to work with two-dimensional and three-dimensional drawings, which can then be passed along to the client and building contractor. Computer literacy is also important.