Overview
What is an Architect?
Architects are built environment professionals that plan and design new buildings, extensions or alterations to existing structures. They’re tasked with taking a brief and turning it into a creative design that meets the needs of a client or employer, whilst simultaneously conforming with building regulations and ensuring the safety and comfort of its occupants.
Architects are often considered to be the creative experts of the built environment, and along with Urban Planners hold responsibility for the early stages of the building lifecycle. As well as designing and creating new structures, they advise on the conservation and restoration of historical properties.
How much do Architects earn?
The average salary of an Architect is usually between £30,000 – £70,000 a year.
Skills
What’s required for the role?
- Creativity and imagination
- Design skills
- An analytical mindset
- Written communication and presentation skills
- Project management skills
- Teamwork
- Maths and IT skills
- Teamwork and leadership
- Knowledge of building codes and safety regulations
- Technical knowledge of the construction process
- Attention to detail
- A passion for design
- Visual intelligence and perceptual skills
- Problem-solving
- An interest in buildings and technology
- An understanding of sustainability
Details
What does an Architect do?
On a typical day, an Architect may be tasked with:
What is the work environment like?
A career in architecture will be split between office work (whether that’s in the studio or remotely in some cases) and visiting the site of the project, with the possibility of meeting with clients depending on the nature of the employer.
Employment in architecture can come in a variety of forms. Some may find work in central and local governments or construction companies, while private practice and freelance are two other common pathways.
Opportunities
Is architecture a good career?
Architecture can be a rewarding and fulfilling career path, but there’s no denying it isn’t for everyone. While creativity and imagination are essential traits, digital skills, project management and the ability to communicate effectively are also paramount for professionals in the construction industry, making architecture a challenging yet rewarding field to work in.
Though hand-drawn designs and sketches are still an integral part of the profession, tools like CAD and BIM are beginning to play a pivotal role as architecture undergoes modernisation and digital transformation. Looking forward, advanced technology like augmented and virtual reality (AR and VR) and digital twins make this an industry full of innovation and opportunity.
However, to bring about this innovation, the architectural industry needs talent. According to a UCEM survey of 300 built environment professionals, 95% of architects felt that their industry is desperately short on talent. The average age of architects in the UK is 45 years old which, while comparatively younger than other industries, means that the profession is in need of young talent.
As with other areas of the built environment, there are a wide range of specialisms within architecture that professionals can choose to focus on in their careers, including:
- Urban design
- Interior architecture
- Landscape architecture
- Green building design
- Commercial, residential or industrial
Become an Architect
Who can become an Architect?
If you’re excited by the prospect of working in architecture, there’s nothing stopping you from beginning your journey. Across the world, students at UCEM have undertaken their studies and successfully launched careers in areas like architecture. Find out about their experiences below:
How to launch a career in Architecture
Typically, a career in architecture requires obtaining a relevant qualification, which itself can require up to five years of university study and a minimum of two years of practical experience. Part-time study and apprenticeships present an accessible and flexible alternative to the traditional university route.
In the UK, the Architects Registration Board (ARB) and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) are the two key professional bodies that accredit degrees, and a qualification recognised by one of these is often required by employers.
Along with obtaining degrees, online CPD courses in relevant subjects can strengthen your employment credentials, such as:
