The fine art of architecture has always included detailed drawings of structures and buildings. Many architects are artistically gifted, but it takes more than drawing skills to take up architecture as a career. They need an understanding of geography, math, design, and engineering to accomplish their work. Here are some of the more common career choices for architects.
Commercial Architecture
Most graduates of architecture go on to become commercial architects. They are often hired to design commercial buildings that are both functional and aesthetic. They are also responsible for making sure that their designs adhere to local building codes and safety regulations.
Most commercial buildings and establishments focus on large, open areas to accommodate a large group of people. The placement of elevators, staircases and emergency exits are essential when it comes to planning this type of structure, and the number of facilities such as toilets and electrical wiring are vital.
Interior Design
Many architects also have an excellent understanding of interior design. An interior designer is focused on furniture placement and the overall look and atmosphere of a building. If commercial architects try to strike a balance between aesthetics and functionality, interior designers generally focus more on aesthetics.
They typically have a deep understanding of the right materials for specific rooms, even when choosing the appropriate dining bench that Singapore stores might have, and what kind of curtain could accentuate the window design. They can work on designs for both homes and offices, always considering the style of the structure of the property.
Landscape Architecture
Landscape architecture is designing outdoor areas, such as parks, gardens, backyards and every kind of public space. They often design spaces that could accommodate large crowds and any outdoor activity. They also design the area to balance nature and human activity, so people will still enjoy the great outdoors. Some of these architects would have to undergo training in urban horticulture. This can help them choose which plants and trees will work for the area.
Urban Planner and Designer
Urban planners work with landscape architects in making sure that the flow of traffic, both pedestrian and vehicular, follow a natural progression. While landscape architects work on a particular section only, an urban planner and designer as a much wider scale to work with since they deal with cities and towns. They plan locations for structures and build networks of paths and streets that put an order in the movement of people, goods and transport. They also need to have a good understanding of the community, the economy and politics of the area they are designing.
So, if you are an architect trying to find your own place in this world, you might want to consider any of these positions as your starting point. At the end of the day, an architect’s work is all about making our environment suitable to our needs, whether it is a residential property, a commercial space, or even a city. They make our homes safe and comfortable, and they make our cities livable places where we can enjoy work and life.