What Is An Architect? Know More About What Architects Do

Architecture shapes the world we live in, from houses and apartments to schools, offices, and other public buildings. Architects design these buildings and play a key role in determining how they look, function, and integrate into cities and communities. But beyond aesthetics, architects have huge impacts on our safety, health, finances, and quality of life through their structures.

This article explains the definition of an architect, their importance, what they do, and key architectural duties and responsibilities. Read on for an in-depth overview of the architectural profession.

What is an Architect?

An architect is a licensed professional who plans and designs buildings and structures, taking many factors into account. Architectural projects range from homes to skyscrapers to complex public venues and institutional buildings. To become an architect requires extensive education, training, and professional licensure.

Specifically, an architect performs the following roles:

• Designs creative yet practical spaces and aesthetically pleasing structures, ensuring designs meet clients’ needs.
• Produces drawings, models, and documents representing architectural plans and ideas.
• Oversees and coordinates construction of buildings to bring concepts to reality.
• Ensures designs satisfy legal building standards and requirements for safety/accessibility.
• Consults and collaborates with clients, engineers, contractors, and other construction professionals.
• Vetted through examination and credentialed by registration boards to approve plans.

Why Architects Are Important?

Architects play a valuable role in communities by enhancing functionality and quality of life through building design. Well-designed structures improve daily experience and make cities more livable.

Specific reasons architects provide immense value:

• Safety – Architects ensure buildings meet codes and standards to safeguard occupants through design best practices. Their understanding of materials and methods prevents flaws leading to accidents or collapse.
• Accessibility – Architectural plans aim to accommodate those of all ages and mobilities through conventions like ramps, lifts, and design flow.
• Health – From indoor air quality to natural light integration, the architectural design promotes well-being and healthy spaces.
• Sustainability – Architects incorporate renewable materials and green building techniques to reduce environmental impact through energy efficiency.
• Investment Returns – Thoughtfully designed buildings have higher real estate value and rental income potential, providing positive ROI.
• Functionality – An architect’s specialized spatial design abilities create functional, practical structures matching intended uses.
• Psychology – Design choices on finishes, layout, and lighting improve occupant moods and focus.

What Does an Architect Do?

Architects handle a wide range of technical, creative, analytical, and managerial tasks throughout each phase of a building project.

Typical work activities include:

1. Planning and Design:

• Consult clients to determine goals, requirements, and budgets for the project.
• Research building sites, zoning laws, codes, accessibility rules, etc.
• Conceptualize design responding to the client brief through sketches and models.
• Outline structure specifications, materials, construction methods, and systems.
• Develop floor plans, elevations, and sections depicting architectural intent.

2. Documentation:

• Produce detailed technical drawings, plan sections, and diagrams.
• Specify materials, engineering elements, finishes, and furnishings.
• Document design compliance with regulations and building standards.
• Coordinate plans with expert consultants for structure, MEP systems, etc.

3. Construction Administration:

• Obtain necessary permits and approval from authorities.
• Assist with bidding and selecting the general contractor.
• Visit the site periodically to review work progress for quality and conformance.
• Approve material samples, shop drawings, and change orders.
• Resolve unexpected issues and control deviations from the design.

4. Oversight Through Completion:

• Supervise testing and commissioning of systems pre-occupancy.
• Conduct final walkthroughs and punch lists to inspect finished work.
• Sign off on regulatory closing documentation and issue the Certificate of Substantial Completion.

5. Architectural Career Paths:

After completing the professional degree and internship requirements, architects can take additional licensing exams to advance. Some career growth options include:

• Licensed Architect – Can independently sign off, stamp, and take legal accountability for design documents and construction.
• Senior Designer – Leads projects or departments after years of sharpening architectural and managerial skills.
• Principal/Partner – Takes partial business ownership with higher leadership status and profits.
• Specialty Certifications – Pursues expertise in healthcare facilities, accessibility, green building, etc.

Conclusion

From conceptual sketches to managing multi-million dollar construction, architects handle multifaceted building projects that bring ideas to reality. Their specialized design skills, technical knowledge, and creative vision lead to thoughtfully envisioned structures that define skylines and uplift communities. With inventive solutions, architects enhance cities worldwide through safe, sustainable, and welcoming designs.