Concisely, Architecture entails the planning, designing and construction processes of all forms of buildings. The history of Architecture dates far back to the early days of civilization as humans have always striven to come up with creative and ideal shelters, either for themselves or for other purposes. Little wonder that some perceive all architectural masterpieces as works of art. However, the complexities and demands in constructing modern structures have led to the emergence of professional architects. Architects are skilled and trained individuals who draw and map out construction plans for all sorts of buildings.

The Resounding Importance of Architects

Since humans would continue to seek places in which they can conveniently live, play, eat and work, professional architects would equally continue to be relevant in the modern world. This is so because architects are directly responsible for the innovative creation and development of these buildings. Be it gigantic public structures or specific private buildings, architects are trained to design frameworks through which they are all brought to life. Furthermore, architects provide detailed information such as cost implications, environmental constraints, budgets, design analysis and specifications, site examinations, among others.

Architects come up with working procedures that align with clients’ suggestions and proposals and in addition, every single detail about the physical representation of a proposed structure is made available by an architect. Some of these details could include drawings of electrical systems, ventilating systems, plumbing systems and communication systems. More importantly, architects are trained to create plans that are in congruence with local and national building laws, fire regulations and other construction rules.

With the aid of BIM (building information modeling) and CADD (computer aided design and drafting), architects are able to construct and create designs for different building projects. Although, drawings with the use of bare hands are still necessary. It comes into play during visits to construction sites and also at the initial stages of projects.

Indeed, the relevance of Architects is way beyond planning and paperwork. On many occasions, architects pay visits to construction sites so as to ensure that engineers adhere strictly to original plans and designs and make use of materials that would ultimately produce good physical representation of such designs. An architect’s role only ends when the construction of a building has been concluded, expenses are settled and adequate examinations have been carried out.

By extension, architects assist project owners in recruiting contractors and liaising the terms of contracts in their stead. They equally work hand-in-hand with experts such as interior designers, urban and regional planners, civil engineers, among others.

Responsibilities of Architects

The following are the basic responsibilities most architects:

• Managing subordinates who also compile drawings and relevant files.
• Providing introductory or foundational cost and time estimates.
• Monitoring contracts.
• Outlining requirements of a project after reaching agreements with clients.
• Organizing specifications for structures.
• Marketing the services offered and carrying out presentations.

Architects’ work fields

While there are many sectors and industries where architects have important roles, the government sector, engineering industries and construction industries have higher employment rates.

On most occasions, architects stay back at their offices to arrange meetings with clients, organize drawings, provide necessary details of projects and also collaborate with engineers and other colleagues. A good number of architects work as full-time employees and sometimes, they need to work beyond normal work hours. However, some architects work directly from their homes. This category comes with a lot of flexibility when it comes to working hours.

Architecture is definitely a field that gives room for personal and corporate explorations. But no one arrives as an architect overnight. There are properly outlined educational and training processes that need to be passed through in order to become a qualified Architect. Read through the post: Prerequisites for Success in Architecture” for an explicit guide.

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