Buildings are not just a fundamental part of our lives, but they have an essential role in shaping them. We live, work, or play inside these structures every day- so how do you think this impacts your experience? From architect’s designs to materials used for construction; everything about building shape reflects who we want our community members (and ourselves) to be: safe and secure with modern amenities at their fingertips like grocery stores on lower floors!
However, with so many factors to consider in both building design and construction, it’s easy for project architects to lose track. Regardless of whether you are a construction owner or contractor, here is what everyone wants to know: What is an architect?
For this article, we define ‘architect’ as someone who provides professional services to the construction sector. To do this, architects need a solid foundation in specialized design and technical know-how—in short, they need to be qualified! Let’s look at how an architect’s training fits into the profession.
In North America and Europe, there are two stages of architectural schooling, with licensing to follow. Most college-track students start out earning a 4-year bachelor’s degree in architecture, but bachelor’s degrees are available across institutions, organizations, and countries. A master’s degree is the other general path to licensure for aspiring architects.
Beyond academic requirements, there are also practical skills that an architect needs to understand before they ever put pen to paper. The services an architect provides are highly skilled and demand a comprehensive intelligence of both physical and digital knowledge.
By understanding how this information is integrated into the design process, you can better appreciate the value of an architect’s work. An architect sees their role as more than just designing a structure; it’s also about ensuring that the final product is safe and efficient to use by the building’s occupants.
An architect’s design process begins with a series of steps:
1. A briefing session, where project goals are defined, and stakeholders meet with the architect to describe their dreams for the project
2. A site visit takes place, where architects collect observations and measurements to better understand the site and identify any opportunities available
3. The architect analyses these results with a cost model, performing calculations on-site to determine what is feasible for the location and scope of the project
4. They then generate 3D wireframes that communicate their ideas visually using design software
5. Architects present their findings and continue iterating until everyone is satisfied
6. Finally, the project documentation process begins with a written report that breaks down all of the relevant information into chunks that can be shared with consultants and designers for construction
All these steps are important to creating a design that functions as efficiently as possible. Architects spend hours poring over details to ensure that the structure will be safe, comfortable and visually appealing for its intended users.
This level of detail is especially critical when it comes to large-scale projects or high-risk buildings like hospitals or skyscrapers. Architects design buildings with a variety of technical factors in mind: structural integrity, load limits, electrical wiring and plumbing, water disposal systems, safety procedures…the list goes on.
Ultimately, it is the architect’s responsibility to ensure that these technical considerations are being made by every individual on the project team. The role of architecture is just as important in new construction projects as it is in renovations and restorations.
Nonetheless, architects have not always been in the position to oversee the project from start to finish.
In some cases, it’s necessary for architects to adapt their practice when working with an existing building or surrounding area. For instance, there are historic preservation guidelines that require them to conserve certain design elements when they are reconstructing or renovating a structure. Therefore, it’s so important for architects to understand the building’s history and its significance in addition to knowing its physical layout.
When it comes to working with existing structures, one of an architect’s most important responsibilities is understanding how renovations or design changes will impact the surrounding area. Their expertise in structure is essential for determining what can be torn down or added onto without compromising the integrity of the structure.
This is why it’s so important for architects to understand how buildings were built and what makes them function properly before making any changes or additions to an existing structure.
Do you need an architect?
We are the best architects in town, with over 20 years of experience. Our team is made up of professional and experienced architects who have worked on a variety of projects across London. We pride ourselves on our ability to provide high-quality architectural services for all types of clients, from individuals to large corporations.
If you’re looking for an architect that can help you realize your vision, then look no further than Mason & Marlowe Architects! Whether it’s residential or commercial architecture we can work together to create something truly unique and beautiful. Let us turn your dreams into reality! Contact Mason & Marlowe today about how they can help bring your ideas to life!
