Architect

Architects are professional experts in the field of building design and construc- tion. They advise individuals, developers, local authorities and commercial organisations on the design and construction of new buildings and the area around them. Architects are also involved in the restoration and conservation of historic and existing buildings. In its wider definition the professional associa- tion for architects, RIBA, says, ‘Society looks to architects to define new ways of living and working, to develop innovative ways of using existing buildings and creating new ones.’ Architects create designs based on information supplied by the client on the function of the building, the proposed budget and the site. An architect needs to have an understanding of structure, finance, planning law and design, and in many building projects acts as the coordinator in a team of specialist consul- tants such as engineers, builders and interior designers. The architect works to the client’s requirements and produces working draw- ings for the builder. These show dimensions, materials and how everything will be put together. An architect will also negotiate with local authorities and submit the designs to planning officers for approval. On large jobs there will be a team of architects working with engineers and other specialists, and it may take months to prepare all the drawings and schedules. Alternatively, very small jobs take only a few weeks. After the contract documents have been prepared and a builder selected, work begins on the site. The architect visits frequently as the building goes up. This can involve tramping around in boots and a hard hat, climbing up and down ladders as well as taking the chair at site meetings. Opportunities exist for employment in private practice, with local authorities, in research, teaching, central government and some industrial organisations. Increasingly, interior design and companies working in associated fields employ architects as part of their team. Specialist areas can include domestic, public building and retail architecture. The use of computer-aided design pack- ages plays a significant part in the work of architects.