However, hand-drawing skills are still required, especially during the conceptual stages of a project and when an architect is at a construction site.Īs construction continues, architects may visit building sites to ensure that contractors follow the design, adhere to the schedule, use the specified materials, and meet work-quality standards. In developing designs, architects must follow state and local building codes, zoning laws, fire regulations, and other ordinances, such as those requiring reasonable access for people with disabilities.Īrchitects use computer-aided design and drafting (CADD) and building information modeling (BIM) for creating designs and construction drawings.
Sometimes, landscape plans are included as well. These plans include drawings of the structural system air-conditioning, heating, and ventilating systems electrical systems communications systems and plumbing. The architects’ plans show the building’s appearance and details of its construction. In some cases, architects provide predesign services, such as feasibility and environmental impact studies, site selection, cost analyses, and design requirements.Īrchitects develop final construction plans on the initial proposal after discussing with clients. Architects can be commissioned to design anything from a single room to an entire complex of buildings.Īrchitects discuss with clients the objectives, requirements, and budget of a project.
They work on public or private projects and design both indoor and outdoor spaces. Architects are responsible for designing these places. People need places to live, work, play, learn, shop, and eat.
There are typically three main steps to becoming a licensed architect: completing a bachelor’s degree in architecture, gaining relevant experience through a paid internship, and passing the Architect Registration Examination. They also visit construction sites to prepare initial drawings and review the progress of projects to ensure that clients’ objectives are met. Work EnvironmentĪrchitects spend much of their time in offices, where they develop plans, meet with clients, and consult with engineers and other architects. Quick Facts: ArchitectsĪrchitects plan and design houses, factories, office buildings, and other structures. Please enable javascript to play this video.