Once the initial ideas for a new building or restoration job have been sketched out, it's the architect's job to design the building in detail. This is done both by hand, and with the help of Computer Aided Design (CAD).
The job isn’t just about drawing. A good architect will use their skills to breathe life into a building - by transforming the inner areas of a dark warehouse into flats flooded with natural light, for example.
As an architect, you'll need more than just an eye for detail and a flair for design. You'll need good people skills as well, and be an excellent communicator. It'll be your job to deal with local authorities to obtain planning permission.
You'll also have to keep the client and building contractor happy through your choice of building materials, and liaise regularly with the construction team and other team members.
If you'd like to find out more about what it takes to make it as an architect, visit www.architecture.com.
If you want to train as an architect, you will need a degree in architecture from one of the 36 nation-wide Architecture Schools, recognised by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA). To get on to one of the courses, you will have to have passed 2 A Levels / 3 H Grades and hold GCSE grades A-C / Standard Grades 1-3, in Maths, English and Science. However all universities and courses are different so it's best to check them out first.
There is a minimum of seven years training in architecture:-
A 3 year degree.
A year in an architectural office.
A 2 year diploma.
And one year's work experience.
Newly qualified architects with CAD experience can expect to earn around £20,000, an associate in a private practice about £33,000 and a partner around £40,000. As usual, salaries in London are higher.
Many architects set up their own practices and can earn even more, while others choose to move into project management. For further information on salaries see professional institutions and industry press.
