Background Information
Becoming an architect is no easy feat. It requires years of study and acquiring the necessary skills, knowledge and certifications to become a fully-fledged professional. This requires a familiarity with complex building materials and engineering principles, among other things. Architects use their creative skills to come up with creative, cutting-edge designs and develop blueprints that adhere to all applicable codes and regulations. When it comes to payment, architects may be compensated through hourly or flat fees, or may receive a commission. On average, architects make a very decent income, although there are a variety of factors that will determine their exact salary.
Pay by Job Title
Architects often go by a variety of job titles such as landscape architect, urban designer, interior designer, building surveyor, etc. The salary of an architect will depend upon their job title and the type of work they do. For instance, those that specialize in residential architecture may command a lower salary than those who design commercial spaces. Additionally, architects working in higher populated, metropolitan areas typically make more money than those working in smaller, rural areas.
Factors Affecting Salary
There are a number of different factors that can affect the salary of an architect. These include the geographic location, the size of the firm where the architect is employed, the type of projects the architect is working on, the number of years of experience, the level of education achieved and the certifications held. Other influences include the rate of inflation, the industry’s reputation and the number of openings available in the field.
Average Salary
The salary of an architect will vary greatly depending on the factors aforementioned. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for all architects in the U.S. as of May 2019 was $80,750. Those working in specialized areas – such as engineering, urban or site design – can receive higher incomes of up to $130,000 per year. Additionally, architects can also earn wide ranging bonuses, incentives, extra benefits and other forms of compensation depending on the agreements made by employers and the number of hours worked.
Meeting Financial Responsibilities
In addition to salary, most architects will also have to take on other financial responsibilities. Operating costs and marketing fees may be incurred by individual architects or firms, as well as fees for licensing and certification renewals. Expenses may also include mandatory travel costs to research and measure properties, or attend important meetings. The amount of financial responsibility is greatly dependent upon the scale and scope of projects, as well as the nature of each specific project.
Skills and Experience Required
Architects possess a variety of skills and knowledge required to be successful in their field. This includes creative and technical problem solving, theoretical understanding, drawing and drafting abilities, knowledge of applicable codes and regulations and excellent communication skills. Experience in a related field such as engineering or construction can also be beneficial, as well as any additional certifications or credentials garnered during further education or training.
Gaining New Clients
Architects have to continually look for ways to gain new clients and projects. Architects may join professional associations, attend trade shows and conferences, network with clients, apply for different grants and use social media platforms to advance their careers. Gaining new clients is an important part of the profession and can be the difference between an average income and a successful career.
Understanding The Future of Architecture
The future of architecture is an ever-evolving concept as the profession adapts to new technology, methods and materials. The modern architect must remain aware of potential changes in the market and be prepared to take on new challenges. Architects also need to develop strategies to constantly improve their skills, network and remain competitive against other professionals in their field.
Emerging Technologies in The Field of Architecture
The field of architecture is steadily advancing with the introduction of cutting edge technologies such as virtual reality, 3D printing and artificial intelligence. Such technologies are revolutionizing the artistic and engineering aspects of design, as well as streamlining the process of creating buildings, bridges, monuments and other structures. Architects that learn to master such technologies can greatly increase the potential for their projects and diversify their skills to stay relevant in the future.
What Inspires Architects
Inspiration is essential for architects. They must stay abreast to the latest trends, offering creative solutions to the modern problems presented by clients. As a result, they need to observe a variety of architecture, while familiarizing themselves with history, cultural context and historical precedent. Architects must also know how to gather data and information to use as design inspiration and strive to connect with people and stakeholders in the industry.
Time Management And Meeting Deadlines
Time management is essential when it comes to the completion of projects. Architects must have the ability to effectively organize their workload and plan for future projects. This includes the use of complex scheduling software and techniques, as well as managing personnel and resources. Architects must also ensure that projects are completed on time and in line with all applicable regulations.
Staying Relevant In a Digital World
The world of architecture is becoming increasingly digital, and architects must stay up to date with technological advancement and industry trends. This includes the use of new software and applications, as well as virtual reality technologies. Becoming proficient with such technologies can open up opportunities for new projects and career paths. Architects must also continuously work to improve their understanding of the industry, as well as remaining aware of changes in legislation and regulations.
