A NEW DAWN FOR ARCHITECTURE
Many freshly graduated architects find themselves unsure about where to begin. The task of planning your professional life in the most complicated branch of design can be a daunting one.
The famous German architect Walter Gropius said that, “A society needs a good image of itself. That is the true job of an architect.” This quote holds true in every era of architectural brilliance.
The Colosseum, the Great Wall of China, the Great Pyramid of Giza, Taj Mahal, Qutub Minar and Red Fort are examples of great architechture. Architecture is one of the most influential professions in our society that offers opportunities to shape and transform the society we live in.
BEING MULTIFACETED HELPS
Architects are not only involved in mainstream architectural practice but also work on urban planning, property development, teaching and disaster relief. They look into considering factors that make the building project functional, secure and economical and fit people’s requirement. They are involved in all phases of a construction project. They require skills such as engineering, designing, supervising, managing, communication and also persuasive skills to communicate their vision.
THE OBJECTIVE OF AN ARCHITECT
With a client, the architect will discuss all the requirements, objectives and budgets of the projects. They can help in pre-design services like selecting a site, preparing cost analysis and land use studies, specifying the requirements the design must meet and conducting feasibility and environmental impact studies. After architects discuss and agree on a proposal, they develop the final construction plans that demonstrate details of construction and the facade of the building. This includes drawings of structural systems and building material and interior furnishings. As construction continues, architects may visit building sites to ensure that contractors follow the design, adhere to the schedule and use the specified materials. They must follow zoning laws, building codes and various other ordinances.
EVOLUTION OF THE PROFESSION
Paper and pencil have been replaced by computer-aided designing and drafting (CADD) and building information modeling (BIM) technology, which is helpful, as architects are required to make continual revisions based on the client’s needs and budget constraints. Collaboration is a large part of this profession, since a great deal of time is spent coordinating information with urban planners, engineers, landscape architects, interior designers and other professionals. Architecture is now one of the most visible and long-term forms of expression. Most professionals today try to blend ancient and modern designs.
PRIME FUTURE PROSPECTS
The job profile of an architect ranges from data analyst, architecture designer, architecture engineer, interior designer, architecture consultant, architectural assistant, architectural historian/journalist, art director, building contractor, designer to landscape architect. Global markets provide attractive career and opportunities for architecture graduates. Some goverment departments that hire architecture graduates include the Ministry of Defence, Housing and Urban Development Corporation; private organizations include builders, state departments, consultants, and architecture firms. In a city that is dominated by the tallest towers, architecture is no joke.