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Architecture

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Architect
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From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
For other uses, see Architect (disambiguation).
This article needs additional citations for verification. Please help improve this
article by adding citations to reliable sources. Unsourced material may be
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Find sources: "Architect" – news · newspapers · books · scholar · JSTOR (October
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An architect, 1893.

Occupation

Names Architect

Occupation type Profession

 Activity sectors Architecture

Civil engineering

Structural engineering

Construction

Project management

Urban planning

Interior design

Visual arts

Description

Competencies Engineering, technical knowledge, building

design, planning and management skills

Education required See professional requirements

An architect is a person who plans, designs, and oversees

the construction of buildings.[1] To practice architecture means to provide services in
connection with the design of buildings and the space within the site surrounding the
buildings that have human occupancy or use as their principal purpose.[2] Etymologically,
the term architect derives from the Latin architectus,[3] which derives from the
Greek[4] (arkhi-, chief + tekton, builder), i.e., chief builder.[5]
The professional requirements for architects vary from location to location. An
architect's decisions affect public safety, and thus the architect must undergo
specialized training consisting of advanced education[6] and a practicum (or internship)
for practical experience to earn a license to practice architecture. Practical, technical,
and academic requirements for becoming an architect vary by jurisdiction though the
formal study of architecture in academic institutions has played a pivotal role in the
development of the profession.
Origins[edit]
Main article: History of architecture
Throughout ancient and medieval history, most architectural design and construction
was carried out by artisans—such as stone masons and carpenters, rising to the role of
master builder. Until modern times, there was no clear distinction between architect
and engineer. In Europe, the titles architect and engineer were primarily geographical
variations that referred to the same person, often used interchangeably.[7][8] "Architect"
derives from Greek ἀρχιτέκτων (arkhitéktōn, "master builder", "chief tektōn).[9]
 Filippo Brunelleschi is revered as one of the most inventive and
gifted architects in history.[10]

It is suggested that various developments in technology and mathematics allowed the

development of the professional 'gentleman' architect, separate from the hands-on
craftsman. Paper was not used in Europe for drawing until the 15th century, but became
increasingly available after 1500. Pencils were used for drawing by 1600. The
availability of both paper and pencils allowed pre-construction drawings to be made by
professionals.[11] Concurrently, the introduction of linear perspective and innovations
such as the use of different projections to describe a three-dimensional building in two
dimensions, together with an increased understanding of dimensional accuracy, helped
building designers communicate their ideas.[11] However, development was gradual and
slow going. Until the 18th-century, buildings continued to be designed and set out by
craftsmen, with the exception of high-status projects.[11][12]
Architecture[edit]
Main article: Architecture
In most developed countries, only those qualified with an appropriate license,
certification, or registration with a relevant body (often governmental), may legally
practice architecture. Such licensure usually required a university degree, successful
completion of exams, as well as a training period.[13] Representation of oneself as an
architect through the use of terms and titles were restricted to licensed individuals by
law, although in general, derivatives such as architectural designer were not legally
protected.
To practice architecture implies the ability to practice independently of supervision. The
term building design professional (or design professional), by contrast, is a much
broader term that includes professionals who practice independently under an alternate
profession such as engineering professionals, or those who assist in the practice of
architecture under the supervision of a licensed architect such as intern architects. In
many places, independent, non-licensed individuals, may perform design services
outside the professional restrictions such as the design houses or other smaller
structures.
Practice[edit]
In the architectural profession, technical and environmental knowledge, design, and
construction management, require an understanding of business as well as design.
However, design is the driving force throughout the project and beyond. An architect
accepts a commission from a client. The commission might involve preparing feasibility
reports, building audits, designing a building or several buildings, structures, and the
spaces among them. The architect participates in developing the requirements the client
wants in the building. Throughout the project (planning to occupancy), the architect
coordinates a design team. Structural, mechanical, and electrical engineers are hired by
the client or architect, who must ensure that the work is coordinated to construct the
design.
Design role[edit]
The architect, once hired by a client, is responsible for creating a design concept that
meets the requirements of that client and provides a facility suitable to the required use.
The architect must meet with and put questions to the client, in order to ascertain all the
requirements (and nuances) of the planned project. [14]
Often the full brief is not clear in the beginning. It involves a degree of risk in the design
undertaking. The architect may make early proposals to the client which may rework the
terms of the brief. The "program" (or brief) is essential to producing a project that meets
all the needs of the owner. This becomes a guide for the architect in creating the design
concept.
Design proposal(s) are generally expected to be both imaginative and pragmatic. Much
depends upon the time, place, finance, culture, and available crafts and technology in
which the design takes place. The extent and nature of these expectations will vary.
Foresight is a prerequisite when designing buildings as it is a very complex and
demanding undertaking.
Any design concept during the early stage of its generation must take into account a
great number of issues and variables including qualities of space(s),[15] the end-use and
life-cycle of these proposed spaces, connections, relations, and aspects between
spaces including how they are put together and the impact of proposals on the
immediate and wider locality. Selection of appropriate materials and technology must be
considered, tested, and reviewed at an early stage in the design to ensure there are no
setbacks (such as higher-than-expected costs) which could occur later in the project.
The site and its surrounding environment as well as the culture and history of the place,
will also influence the design. The design must also balance increasing concerns
with environmental sustainability. The architect may introduce (intentionally or not),
aspects of mathematics and architecture, new or current architectural theory, or
references to architectural history.
A key part of the design is that the architect often must consult with engineers,
surveyors and other specialists throughout the design, ensuring that aspects such as
structural supports and air conditioning elements are coordinated. The control and
planning of construction costs are also a part of these consultations. Coordination of the
different aspects involves a high degree of specialized communication including
advanced computer technology such as building information modeling (BIM), computer-
aided design (CAD), and cloud-based technologies. Finally, at all times, the architect
must report back to the client who may have reservations or recommendations which
might introduce further variables into the design.
Architects also deal with local and federal jurisdictions regarding regulations
and building codes. The architect might need to comply with
local planning and zoning laws such as required setbacks, height limitations, parking
requirements, transparency requirements (windows), and land use. Some jurisdictions
require adherence to design and historic preservation guidelines. Health and safety
risks form a vital part of the current design, and in some jurisdictions, design reports and
records are required to include ongoing considerations of materials and contaminants,
waste management and recycling, traffic control, and fire safety.
Means of design[edit]
Previously, architects employed drawings[11] to illustrate and generate design proposals.
While conceptual sketches are still widely used by architects,[16] computer technology
has now become the industry standard.[17] Furthermore, design may include the use of
photos, collages, prints, linocuts, 3D scanning technology, and other media in design
production. Increasingly, computer software is shaping how architects work. BIM
technology allows for the creation of a virtual building that serves as an information
database for the sharing of design and building information throughout the life-cycle of
the building's design, construction, and maintenance.[18] Virtual reality (VR) presentations
are becoming more common for visualizing structural designs and interior spaces from
the point-of-view perspective.
Environmental role[edit]
Since modern buildings are known to place carbon into the atmosphere, increasing
controls are being placed on buildings and associated technology to reduce emissions,
increase energy efficiency, and make use of renewable energy sources. Renewable
energy sources may be designed into the proposed building by local or national
renewable energy providers. As a result, the architect is required to remain abreast of
current regulations that are continually being updated. Some new developments exhibit
extremely low energy use or passive solar building design.[19] However, the architect is
also increasingly being required to provide initiatives in a wider environmental sense.
Examples of this include making provisions for low-energy transport, natural daylighting
instead of artificial lighting, natural ventilation instead of air conditioning, pollution, and
waste management, use of recycled materials, and employment of materials which can
be easily recycled.
Construction role[edit]
As the design becomes more advanced and detailed, specifications and detail designs
are made of all the elements and components of the building. Techniques in the
production of a building are continually advancing which places a demand on the
architect to ensure that he or she remains up to date with these advances.
Depending on the client's needs and the jurisdiction's requirements, the spectrum of the
architect's services during each construction stage may be extensive (detailed
document preparation and construction review) or less involved (such as allowing a
contractor to exercise considerable design-build functions).
Architects typically put projects to tender on behalf of their clients, advise them on the
award of the project to a general contractor, facilitate and administer a contract of
agreement which is often between the client and the contractor. This contract is legally
binding and covers a wide range of aspects including the insurance and commitments
of all stakeholders, the status of the design documents, provisions for the architect's
access, and procedures for the control of the works as they proceed. Depending on the
type of contract utilized, provisions for further sub-contract tenders may be required.
The architect may require that some elements are covered by a warranty which
specifies the expected life and other aspects of the material, product, or work.
In most jurisdictions, prior notification to the relevant authority must be given before
commencement of the project, giving the local authority notice to carry out independent
inspections. The architect will then review and inspect the progress of the work in
coordination with the local authority.
The architect will typically review contractor shop drawings and other submittals,
prepare and issue site instructions, and provide Certificates for Payment to the
contractor (see also Design-bid-build) which is based on the work done as well as any
materials and other goods purchased or hired in the future. In the United Kingdom and
other countries, a quantity surveyor is often part of the team to provide cost consulting.
With large, complex projects, an independent construction manager is sometimes hired
to assist in the design and management of the construction.
In many jurisdictions, mandatory certification or assurance of the completed work or part
of works, is required. This demand for certification entails a high degree of risk;
therefore, regular inspections of the work as it progresses on site is required to ensure
that the design is in compliance itself as well as following all relevant statutes and
permissions.
Alternate practice and specializations[edit]
Recent decades have seen the rise of specializations within the profession. Many
architects and architectural firms focus on certain project types (e.g. healthcare, retail,
public housing, and event management), technological expertise, or project delivery
methods. Some architects specialize in building code, building envelope, sustainable
design, technical writing, historic preservation(US) or conservation (UK), and
accessibility.
Many architects elect to move into real estate (property) development, corporate
facilities planning, project management, construction management, chief sustainability
officers interior design, city planning, user experience design, and design research.
Professional requirements
Main article: Professional requirements for architects
See also: Architectural engineering § Architect
Although there are variations in each location, most of the world's architects are
required to register with the appropriate jurisdiction. Architects are typically required to
meet three common requirements: education, experience, and examination.
Basic educational requirement generally consist of a university degree in architecture.
The experience requirement for degree candidates is usually satisfied by a practicum or
internship (usually two to three years). Finally, a Registration Examination or a series of
exams is required prior to licensure.
Professionals who engaged in the design and supervision of construction projects prior
to the late 19th century were not necessarily trained in a separate architecture program
in an academic setting. Instead, they often trained under established architects. Prior to
modern times, there was no distinction between architects and engineers and the title
used varied depending on geographical location. They often carried the title of master
builder [20][21]or surveyor after serving a number of years as an apprentice (such as
Sir Christopher Wren). The formal study of architecture in academic institutions played a
pivotal role in the development of the profession as a whole, serving as a focal point for
advances in architectural technology and theory. The use of "Architect" or abbreviations
such as "Ar." as a title attached to a person's name was regulated by law in some
countries.
Fees[edit]
Architects' fee structure was typically based on a percentage of construction value, as a
rate per unit area of the proposed construction, hourly rates, or a fixed lump sum fee.
Combination of these structures was also common. Fixed fees were usually based on a
project's allocated construction cost and could range between 4 and 12% of new
construction cost for commercial and institutional projects, depending on a project's size
and complexity. Residential projects ranged from 12 to 20%. Renovation projects
typically commanded higher percentages such as 15-20%.[22]
Overall billings for architectural firms range widely, depending on their location and
economic climate. Billings have traditionally been dependent on the local economic
conditions, but with rapid globalization, this is becoming less of a factor for large
international firms. Salaries could also vary depending on experience, position within
the firm (i.e. staff architect, partner, or shareholder, etc.), and the size and location of
the firm.
Professional organizations[edit]
Main article: List of professional architecture organizations
A number of national professional organizations exist to promote career and business
development in architecture.

 The International Union of Architects (UIA)

 The American Institute of Architects (AIA) US
 Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) UK
 Architects Registration Board (ARB) UK
 The Australian Institute of Architects (AIA) Australia
 The South African Institute of Architects (SAIA) South Africa
 Association of Consultant Architects (ACA) UK [23]
 Association of Licensed Architects (ALA) US
 The Consejo Profesional de Arquitectura y Urbanismo (CPAU) Argentina
 Indian Institute of Architects (IIA) & Council of Architecture (COA) India
 The National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) US [24]
Prizes and awards[edit]
Main article: List of architecture prizes

Ceremony for the 2019 Aga Khan Award for

Architecture, presenting the award for the Arcadia Education Centre
A wide variety of prizes is awarded by national professional associations and other
bodies, recognizing accomplished architects, their buildings, structures, and
professional careers.
The most lucrative award an architect can receive is the Pritzker Prize, sometimes
termed the "Nobel Prize for architecture." The inaugural Pritzker Prize winner was Philip
Johnson who was cited "for 50 years of imagination and vitality embodied in a myriad of
museums, theatres libraries, houses gardens and corporate structure". The Pritzker
Prize has been awarded for forty-two straight editions without interruption, and there are
now 22 countries with at least one winning architect. Other prestigious architectural
awards are the Royal Gold Medal, the AIA Gold Medal (US), AIA Gold Medal
(Australia), and the Praemium Imperiale.[25]
Architects in the UK, who have made contributions to the profession through design
excellence or architectural education, or have in some other way advanced the
profession, might until 1971 be elected Fellows of the Royal Institute of British
Architects and can write FRIBA after their name if they feel so inclined. Those elected to
chartered membership of the RIBA after 1971 may use the initials RIBA but cannot use
the old ARIBA and FRIBA. An Honorary Fellow may use the initials, Hon. FRIBA. and
an International Fellow may use the initials Int. FRIBA. Architects in the US, who have
made contributions to the profession through design excellence or architectural
education, or have in some other way advanced the profession, are elected Fellows of
the American Institute of Architects and can write FAIA after their name. Architects in
Canada, who have made outstanding contributions to the profession through
contribution to research, scholarship, public service, or professional standing to the
good of architecture in Canada, or elsewhere, may be recognized as a Fellow of
the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada and can write FRAIC after their name. In
Hong Kong, those elected to chartered membership may use the initial HKIA, and those
 who have made a special contribution after nomination and election by The Hong Kong
Institute of Architects (HKIA), may be elected as fellow members of HKIA and may use
FHKIA after their name.
See also[edit]

 Architecture portal

 Architectural designer
 Architectural drawing
 Architectural engineering
 Architectural technologist
 Building officials
 Chartered architect
 Civil engineer
 Construction engineering
 Construction manager
 Drafter
 Expression (architecture)
 Industrial architecture
 Landscape architect
 List of architects
 Starchitect
 State architect
 Structural engineering
 Urban designer
 Urban planner
 Women in architecture
References[edit]
1. ^ "What's the difference between an architect and a building designer?". BUILD. Archived from the
original on 2021-03-02. Retrieved 2021-03-03.
2. ^ "The Nova Scotia Legislature". Office of the Legislative Counsel. Nova Scotia House of Assembly.
2006. Archived from the original on July 21, 2011. Retrieved 8 March 2019.
3. ^ "Etymology in Architecture: Tracing the Language of Design to its Roots". ArchDaily. 2018-07-
30. Archived from the original on 2021-05-26. Retrieved 2021-03-03.
4. ^ "The Meaning of the Word Architect | The History of Design-Build". New England Design &
Construction. 2019-10-24. Archived from the original on 2021-05-26. Retrieved 2021-03-03.
5. ^ Harper, Douglas. "architect". Online Etymology Dictionary. Archived from the original on 24 April
2011. Retrieved 8 March 2019.
6. ^ Czcibor-Piotrowski, Andrzej (2000). "The Profession and Discipline of Architecture: Practice and
Education". Discipline of Architecture. University of Minnesota Press. p. 293. ISBN 978-0-8166-3665-
5. JSTOR 10.5749/j.cttttqm2.18.
7. ^ Murray, Peter (1986). Burckhardt, Jacob (ed.). The Architecture of the Italian Renaissance. Knopf
Doubleday Publishing Group. p. 242. ISBN 0-8052-1082-2.
 8. ^ "Civil Engineering Defined - Civil Engineering Definitions and History". SMW Engineering Group,
Inc. Archived from the original on 25 April 2012. Retrieved 8 March 2019.
9. ^ Harper, Douglas. "architect". Online Etymology Dictionary. Archived from the original on 5
December 2022. Retrieved 5 December 2022.
10. ^ "Filippo Brunelleschi". Totally History. 11 October 2012. Archived from the original on 4 July 2017.
Retrieved 8 March 2019.
11. ^ Jump up to:a b c d Pacey, Arnold (2007). Medieval Architectural Drawing: English Craftsmen's
Methods and Their Later Persistence (c.1200-1700). Stroud: Tempus Publishing. pp. 225–
227. ISBN 978-0-7524-4404-8. Archived from the original on 2023-12-10. Retrieved 2019-08-20.
12. ^ Vardhan, Harsh. "Different types of work by architects". Archibuddy. Archived from the original on 17
March 2018. Retrieved 17 March 2018.
13. ^ "The Basics". NCARB - National Council of Architectural Registration Boards. 2017-01-
23. Archived from the original on 2020-05-01. Retrieved 2020-04-29.
14. ^ "Architects - What do Architects do?". StudentScholarships.org. Archived from the original on 2020-
05-13. Retrieved 2020-04-29.
15. ^ Üngür, Erdem. "Space: The undefinable space of architecture". researchgate.net. Retrieved June
9, 2022.
16. ^ Rosenfield, Karissa (5 June 2015). "17 Napkin Sketches by Famous
Architects". ArchDaily. ISSN 0719-8884. Archived from the original on 5 March 2019. Retrieved 8
March 2019.
17. ^ Rybczynski, Witold (30 March 2011). "Think Before You Build". Slate. The Slate Group. Graham
Holdings Company. Archived from the original on 14 June 2018. Retrieved 8 December 2015.
18. ^ "Frequently Asked Questions About the National BIM Standard-United States". National BIM
Standard. National Institute of Building Sciences. Archived from the original on 16 October 2014.
Retrieved 17 October 2014.
19. ^ "What is a Passive House?". passipedia.org. Archived from the original on 2015-12-08.
Retrieved 2015-12-08.
20. ^ Routman, Marcus. Master Builders of Byzantium.
21. ^ Boero, Dina. "Who Built Qal'at Sim'ān?". ProQuest 2813607353.
22. ^ "RIBA". Archived from the original on 2023-08-10. Retrieved 2023-08-09.
23. ^ "Association of Consultant Architects". Archived from the original on 2020-04-11. Retrieved 2020-
04-11.
24. ^ "National Organization of Minority Architects". Archived from the original on 2021-10-20.
Retrieved 2021-10-20.
25. ^ "5 Highly Prestigious Awards in Architecture That You Should Know". Arch2O.com. 2016-11-
07. Archived from the original on 2019-12-10. Retrieved 2020-04-30.

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