Architecture is one of those fields that include a wide variety of career options, owing to the several topics that fall under its domain. Architects work on scales starting from a small room in a house to an entire city. They design, develop, present, and supervise all sorts of projects. Their knowledge, design skills, and artistic sense make them capable of approaching other paths like graphic design, product design, or even game design.
An architect can opt to be a jack of all trades or just specialize, and here we give you a brief on the 7 types of architects you are likely to be one of, at some point in your career.
What are The Different Types of Architects?
1- Residential Architect
Residential buildings have come to be seemingly identical after the standardization that followed the industrial revolution in the past century. However, some neighborhoods still enjoy the merits of beautifully customized residences and this where Residential Architects work. They deal with clients who would like to have their own customized houses designed. They take note of their spatial and functional requirements; then they start to design the plans, layouts, and elevations. They estimate the costs of materials and services, as well as the time needed to complete the construction and finishing.
2- Commercial Architect
A well-designed building is aesthetically pleasing as well as functional, and the functionality varies according to the type of space that is being designed. A successful design of a commercial or public building is highly dependent on a flowing and self-guiding circulation that optimize the experience for the building users. For example, a well-designed shopping mall lets the buyers find their way and get what they need easily, without getting lost or walking more than they should. Commercial Architects are supposed to make that happen. They specialize in non-residential buildings, and this specialization requires engineering, construction, and artistic skills. It also requires full awareness of building codes, safety regulations, and construction costs.
3- Interior Designer
Designing and styling the interior of an apartment, an office, or a restaurant requires artistic sense and technical knowledge. Interior Designers have a deep knowledge of materials, fabrics, colors, and basics of furniture design. Some architects prefer to work on the large scale and not to get involved with such details, while others, like the pioneer Frank Lloyd Wright, prefer to do the interior design for their own projects.
4- Green Design Architect
With the recent changes in climate and the remarkable decline in non-renewable energy resources, the role of Green Design Architects has become essential.
Green Design Architects are responsible for making eco-friendly and energy efficient architectural designs. They continuously work on innovating effective green design methods that leave a minimal impact on the environment. These architects should be knowledgeable in fields like aerodynamics, sun, and shading, as well as properties of materials.
5- Landscape Architect
Landscape architecture is concerned with outdoor spaces like parks, gardens, neighborhoods, campuses, and public spaces. Landscape architects design these spaces to be efficient, engaging, and harmonious with the environment. They decide the locations for buildings, walkways, greenery, and other hardscape elements accordingly. Landscape architects also choose the materials for the walkways and the types of trees and shrubs for the green areas, and so they need to have a background in the science of urban horticulture. They should be aware of the suitable materials and plants for different climates and uses.
6- Urban Designer
Urban Design is a broad subject that employs other specializations like building architecture, landscape design, and green design. It deals with the scales of neighborhoods, districts, and cities. Urban designers are in charge of grouping buildings, designing nodes, paths, and street networks. So, they give the city its shape and sense of order. They can design cities from scratch or develop existing ones. Urban designers additionally face a wider range of issues that have to do with the economy, politics, and culture. They, also, have to be in touch with the communities they serve who are their actual clients.
7- Industrial Architect
The architecture of an industrial facility can be vital to its functionality. They need a suitable envelope that aids the flow of the industrial process taking place inside, and that is what Industrial Architects specialize in. They fully understand the different industrial processes, and accordingly, design efficient and functional buildings that can hold them.
Finding Your Way
Studying architecture opens the door to many paths which all require hard work, dedication, and a touch of creativity. Deciding on one of them may not be easy. Trial and error is one way to do it, or you can consult with teachers and practitioner. If you are one of those who has always known exactly what they want, then consider yourself lucky.
Source: arch2o.com
