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Overview of Architecture
The common idea about an architect is that they design houses. However, there are a lot of different skills and processes involved in architecture which many people don’t know about. The actual structures architects design are all around you. The scale of work that architects are involved in ranges from small scale projects like homes, to large scale projects such as urban centres. |
Studying Architecture
Becoming an architect requires study in an accredited architecture degree, such as the four-year Bachelor of Architecture. This undergraduate architecture course is then followed by two years of practical work experience.
Once graduated from an architecture course, it is essential to then register with the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia. Working architects also continually update their knowledge throughout their careers.
Careers in Architecture
Architects in their day-to-day work are called upon to combine both the mechanics of design, and the art of design in their projects. A lot of time is spent discussing and communicating their vision to clients, contractors, and interested parties.
After the initial planning and meeting process has progressed, the architect will then prepare drawings and plans for the structure discussed, drawn either by hand or by using Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software.
These plans will show the final construction’s appearance, and the fine details within it, which contractors can then use.
Architects can work in private firms, for the local, state or federal governments, in the public sector, or even work freelance for themselves.
Many architects choose to specialise in one area of design, such as a specific type of building. Other architects will focus on the pre-design part of the process, with little involvement in construction.
An architect's salary varies, but architects who worked full time in 2010 earned on average just under $80,000. However, this figure can change depending on which sector the architect works in.
Skills needed in Architecture
Architects are required to have good communication skills, in order to discuss briefs with clients and builders when designing or modifying structures.
Being able to draw and plan a building means architects must have both a practical and creative ability. Firstly, architects are required to understand a range of design and building fundamentals in order to produce buildings that will work from an engineering perspective.
However, architects are also required to have vision and creative flair in their designs, and produce interesting and compelling structures.
Therefore, the personal skills that architects should possess are creative ability, as well as enjoyment for the process of design.
More information
Architecture & Planning
Drafting
Landscape Architecture
Naval Architecture
Property Development
Surveying
Urban Planning