Background Information
Architecture is a field of study steeped in history, focused on the built environment and is the oldest of the engineering disciplines. It requires creative and critical thinking skills, along with a high level of technical and scientific knowledge. To become a successful architect, one must be able to problem solve, combine critical communication and creative problem-solving skills to design viable, beautiful and economic structures that meet the needs of the client. This requires an understanding of human psychology, sociology and economics, as well as an understanding of materials, engineering rules and regulations.
Relevant Data
In 2016, the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) reported that the number of students graduating from accredited architecture programs had increased by 1.4 percent from 2015. In 2016, the median starting salary for NAAB accredited architecture graduates ranged from $43,000 to $68,000, depending on the type of architecture degree. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job growth for architects is projected to rise by eight percent between 2016 and 2026.
Experts Perspectives
J. Robert Hillier, an architect, educator and former president of the American Institute of Architects, believes that architecture is harder than many undergraduate programs. He states, ”Architecture can be difficult to study because of the sheer variety of disciplines (structural, environmental, etc) that must be mastered of well as the breadth of knowledge – from history and culture to technology and engineering – that is necessary to bring it all together.”
Phil Bernstein, a Senior Lecturer at the Yale School of Architecture agrees with Hillier, and adds, ”Architecture is a difficult program to study because it is more than just drawing plans. It’s about understanding the full context of the project including the needs of the client, the design criteria and the building code. Architects must be able to think analytically, creatively, contextually, spatially and technically to design a building that will meet the needs of the client and maintain structural integrity.”
Analysis and Insights
Architecture is a difficult field to study and practice. Architecture entails knowledge and skills from a variety of disciplines that must come together to construct a building that is aesthetically pleasing and meets the client’s requirements; understanding the complexities of the building code and regulations, as well as the necessary materials to build a structurally sound design is a considerable challenge.
By combining knowledge of physics, engineering and materials with the creative spatial and aesthetic design sense, any successful architectural project requires strong decision-making skills and high levels of both analytic and creative thinking. Moreover, in order to succeed, one must understand the many different contexts this field entails, from legal aspects and regulations to economics and politics.
In addition, it is essential for an architect to be in touch with their own creativity and the ideas of their colleagues in order to approach their projects with imagination and ambition. Architects must be able to express their ideas to clients in order to be able to create a design that meets their expectations while remaining true to the architect’s own vision.
Managing Client Expectations
The architect-client relationship is a critical aspect of any successful project, as the client’s needs must be understood and taken into account in order to deliver a successful outcome. It is essential that the architect is able to explain complex technical terms and trade-offs to the client in a comprehensible fashion in order to ensure that their expectations are met within the confines of the project’s budget and schedule.
In addition, the architect must be able to prioritize tasks and remain flexible to changing requirements and goals throughout the project. Some clients are open to novel solutions and accept a high degree of risk, while others have preferences for more traditional approaches and may require more conservative building materials and approaches. A successful architect must be able to fine-tune the project to meet the individual needs of each client.
Balancing Creativity and Cost- Effectiveness
Another important aspect to remember is cost-effectiveness. Architects may have a vision they wish to achieve, however they must consider the client’s budget as well as the costs of the materials required to achieve their designs. Architects must find a balance between their ambition and the client’s budget and often must be creative in order to reduce costs while still achieving the desired aesthetic. Moreover, an architect must be able to effectively manage risks and prioritize tasks to ensure a successful outcome.
Understanding Building Regulations
Undertaking a successful building project requires an understanding of the local and national building regulations, codes and standards. The architect must be aware of the safety requirements, such as building codes and zoning laws, as a mistake could be both costly and potentially dangerous. Architects must also be aware of the cultural and social values of their clients, as well as the needs of other professionals involved in the project such as surveyors, engineers, contractors and quantity surveyors.
Not only must architects understand specific materials and techniques, but they must also consider the structural integrity of buildings and complex structural elements, such as bridges. Architects must be able to develop a structural form that not only meets the aesthetic needs of their client but is also structurally sound and able to sustain the weight of the load it is intended to carry.
An architect must also be familiar with the history of the area they are working in. Architects must be able to combine past and present knowledge to develop new and innovative designs while remaining true to the spirit of the area. They must also be aware of the changing cultural, economic and legal contexts their buildings will inhabit.
Managing Multiple Projects
Due to the complexity of the field, the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously is essential. An architect must be able to manage their time, resources and staff to ensure the successful completion of their projects. A successful architect does more than develop aesthetically pleasing designs; they must bring an understanding of construction, cost-effectiveness, sustainability, legal issues and the needs of their clients to every project.
Maintaining Sustainability
Finally, architects must be aware of the environmental impact of their projects and be able to develop designs that meet sustainability goals. In addition to meeting the needs of their clients, architects must be mindful of their projects’ impact and develop innovative and sustainable solutions. Architects must also consider the safety of their buildings and how they may impact the lives of the building’s users.
Overall, architecture requires a unique set of skills that must be balanced in order to achieve successful projects. Architects must be creative, analytical, technical and knowledgeable in various disciplines in order to develop structurally sound, aesthetically pleasing, innovative and sustainable projects that meet the needs of their clients and the communities in which their buildings will inhabit.
