A Career in Architecture

Architecture

• What is Architecture?• About Architecture • Design Architects• Project Architects• Construction Managers• Draftspersons• Landscape Architects

What is Architecture?“Architecture is the thoughtful making of space.”

- Louis Kahn

What is Architecture?“Architecture is the imaginative blend of art and science in the design of environments for people. People need places to eat, work, live and play. Architects transform these needs into concepts and then develop the concepts into building images that can be constructed by others.”

- ARCHcareers.org

About ArchitectureArchitects are licensed professionals trained in the art and science of building design who develop the concepts for structures and turn those concepts into images and plans. They typically design facilities intended for human habitation

About Architecture

• About 1 in 5 architects is self employed. • A license is required to serve as a practicing architect. • Licensing involves earning a professional degree from an

NAAB approved school, at least 3 years experience, and passing Architect Registration Exams.

• Employment is expected to

grow faster than other occupations, but competition for the most prestigious jobs is fierce.

About Architecture

• Management structure and job titles vary among firms.

• Smaller firms are sometimes comprised of one architect who fulfills all tasks.

•Larger firms work in teams. Some common titles include design architect, project architect, construction administrator, and draftsperson.

Design Architects

• Generally have many years of experience

• Create the overall look and feel of a building

• Envision the big picture and attract clients

• May stay involved with the entire project but not with the finer details

Project Architects

• Make sure that the drawings are put together correctly

• Make sure that the building can actually be built

• Make sure the design meets codes and zoning laws

• Make sure the design meets the functional needs of the client

Construction Administrators

• Oversee a structure’s actual construction

• Work closely with the designers and architects

• Generally spend more time at the build site than in the office

Draftspersons

• Enter an architect’s design into the computer

• Are often beginning

or interning architects –

others may be CAD

technicians with a

2-year degree

Landscape Architects• Design exterior areas to be functional,

beautiful, and compatible with the natural environment

• Design residential areas, public parks, play areas, college campuses, shopping areas, golf courses, and parkways

• Design the restoration of natural places disturbed by humans such as wetlands, stream corridors, mined areas, and forested land

Architecture

• What is Architecture?• About Architecture • Design Architects• Project Architects• Construction Managers• Draftspersons• Landscape Architects

Image Resources

Microsoft, Inc. (n.d.). Clip art. Retrieved March 18, 2009, from http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/clipart/default.aspx