The architect is a person trained in the planning, design and oversight of the construction of buildings and structures. They offer their services in connection with designing and the actual construction of the building, or a group of buildings. They also design the spaces that surround the buildings.
The where and how that distinguishes their work is in the performance of their knowledge, their design abilities, and the completion of the project. The end result; pleasing to the eye, on budget and totally functional.
Their duties include; pre-design services, programming, planning, providing designs, drawings, specifications and other technical submissions. They oversee and administer the construction contracts and co-ordination any technical elements prepared by others (such as by engineers); that are a part of the project.
Basically, they design everything, they design buildings, landscaping layouts, and all other structures. In
addition to considering the way these buildings and structures look, they also make sure they are functional, safe, economical and suit the needs of the people who use them.
Often they collaborates with a myriad of engineers. They would include; but not limited too; the structural engineer, the electrical engineer, and the mechanical engineer.
Along with the engineers, they align themselves with various designers that will be needed to accomplish the proper design, layout, and actual construction of the said building, structure, or landscape project.
Interior design, is a large part of the process, whether the project is a single residence, a residential development or a commercial complex, interior design falls under the guises of this profession.
Without the blueprint, it would be impossible for the contractors and builders to do their part in the construction phase of the design. The blueprint has the exact measurements and is the guide and layout needed to properly execute the job.
Some of the necessary skills and job functions are as follows:
They will have discussions about the objectives, requirements, and budget of a project. On any given day they may provide various pre-design services, which could include conducting a feasibility study, a study on the environmental impact of the project, or they could be involved with the selection of the site, and of course specify all the requirements necessary to complete the design.
As an architect you will prepare drawings, and present the ideas for your clients review. Along with all those items you will still develop final construction plans that show the building’s appearance as well as details for its construction.
Last but certainly not least you must know and follow all the building codes, zoning laws, fire regulations, and any other ordinances that may apply to your locale.
If that wasn’t enough to fill your plate, here is the icing on the cake: be prepared to make the necessary changes throughout the planning process; and until the home, building, or structure is completed.
So how do you become One?
There are three types of professional degrees that are offered through colleges and universities. Many of today’s courses can be done online. Online courses and accredited, online schools, make it easier for the student to get their, degree online.
The degrees are as follows:
A 5-year Bachelors Degree, this path is for the student entering an architectural school straight from high school, and or, with no previous architectural training.
The 2-year Masters Degree, is for the student with a professional undergraduate degree in architecture or a related area of study.
The 3 or 4-year Masters Degree, is offered to the student with a degree in some other discipline.
In the United States, if you want to provide architectural services you must be licensed. To become licensed you must earn a degree, complete a period of, on the job training or fulfill an internship. Finally you must pass all divisions of the ARE; (Architect Registration Examination), and in most states, there is a continuing education requirement to maintain licensing.
Typically those who choose this career path should display an interest in design, are art savvy, and have a good mastery of math. Some of the intangibles are a passion for the craft, and a desire burning in their belly.
Well my blueprint drawing friends go out into the world create a beautiful edifice and house the populace. Until we meet again, may all your thoughts become prints and all your prints erected.
