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Architect

Architects use creativity and a practical understanding of structures and materials to develop concepts, plans, specifications and detailed drawings for buildings and other structures.

They negotiate with builders and planning authorities, administer building contracts and inspect work that has been carried out.

Architects may also be involved in project feasibility studies, strategic asset investigations, heritage studies, urban planning, interior design or landscape design.

Architects often specialise in particular types of work, such as domestic, low-rise commercial, high-rise commercial, industrial, conservation and heritage buildings.

Architects need to keep up with changing trends in the construction industry and the community.

They have considerable contact with the public.

TASKS

Architects may perform the following tasks:

meet with clients or builders to discuss their requirements and prepare a design brief
prepare sketches, production drawings and detailed drawings by hand or using computer-aided design (CAD) software
combine structural, mechanical and artistic elements into a building's design, such as decks and atriums, lifts, air conditioning systems and decorative finishes
discuss designs and cost estimates with clients and others involved in the project, including engineers, quantity surveyors, landscape architects, and urban and regional planners
obtain necessary approvals from authorities
prepare specifications and contract documents for builders, tradespeople and legal advisers, specifying building materials, construction equipment and, in some cases, the interior furnishings
observe, inspect and monitor building work to ensure it is progressing according to the contract and specifications
observe projects once they are completed and occupied

PERSONAL REQUIREMENTS

aptitude for design
creativity
able to analyse problems logically
good communication skills

Good Outlook for this career!

Interest Area

EDUCATION & TRAINING

To become an architect you usually have to complete an accredited degree in architecture. This usually consists of a degree in arts or design with a major in architecture, followed by a Master of Architecture.

To get into the degree courses you usually need to gain your HSC/ACT Year 12. Prerequisite subjects, or assumed knowledge, in one or more of English and mathematics are normally required. Applicants may also be required to demonstrate basic freehand drawing ability and computer skills. A number of universities in Australia offer degrees in architecture. Entry to postgraduate courses usually requires completion of an appropriate bachelor degree.

Universities have different prerequisites and some have flexible entry requirements. Contact the universities you are interested in for more information as requirements may change.

Additional Information

Architects must also be registered with the Architects Registration Board in the state or territory in which they intend to practise. To apply for registration you must complete an accredited architecture degree, have two years of monitored experience with an architectural firm and sit an examination in architectural practice set by the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia (AACA) and run by the ACT Architects Board or the NSW Architects Registration Board.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES

Most architects work in architectural firms or for businesses that have large construction programmes. Many start their own practice after a few years of experience.

Architectural training develops the ability to combine arts, science and technology. This means that architects increasingly find work in areas outside of architecture, such as urban planning and design, property development, construction management, interior design, industrial design, teaching, research and journalism.