Architect
Career information and advice on being a Architect

An Architect is responsible for the planning, design and managing the construction of a building from finding the site right through to completion. An Architect’s responsibilities include health and safety, the design of the building,  the function of the space as well as ergonomics, environmental legislation and client requirements.

As an Architect you would usually be the Project Coordinator and liaise with Civil Engineers, Structural Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Electrical Engineers, Interior Designers, Landscape Architects, Town Planners, Plumbers, Builders, the client as well as the Construction Manager, Quantity Surveyors, Building Surveyors, Land Surveyors and Accountants.

Excellent interpersonal skills both oral and written,the ability to use  CAD programs such as ArchiCad or AutoCAD and the ability to sell concepts are essential to an Architect.

Architect functions include

As well as the creative element that is essential to an Architect, your responsibilities would also include the preparation of technical documents that need to be filed for permits and planning consent. These documents would need to be submitted to local councils for approval and will be subject to local bylaws such as building heights, environmental considerations and other local laws where applicable.

The technical drawings would also be used to plan timing, materials, costing and other factors essential to the construction. As an Architect you will need a good knowledge, not only of Architecture and construction, but also local building restrictions/requirements costs for materials and labour and possess sound business acumen.