What is an Architect?
The facets of an architect's role are as varied and fascinating as their designs; these are the professionals who lead the process of creating functional spaces, from concept to full realization of their projects.
As a leader of various projects, from something as small as an addition to someone's home, to something as large as a hospital, college campus, or an entire neighbourhood, the role of an architect is to bring together the creative ideas and visions of the client and keep in mind the needs of those that will be using the space.
What does an Architect do?
Architecture gives you the freedom to use the right side of your brain, the creative part! Every building is different. Every project is different. Architecture is an art that works hand-in-hand with science to design places where people can live, eat, work and play.
Architects are not just involved in the design of a building. As a licensed professional they are also responsible for public safety and overseeing of projects. Their role is important in every stage of the building's construction, from the initial concept to the opening ceremony when the building is complete.
Architects are obligated to protect the health, welfare, and safety of a building's occupants, so it is absolutely necessary that the architect have construction knowledge. Anyone who designs a building without any construction knowledge is an artist or a designer; they are not an architect.
It is necessary to note, however, that a building beyond a rudimentary structure is too much for just one architect to take on or to fully understand all by themselves. Sometimes there are gaps in knowledge, and it takes collaboration with other architects and engineers to safely and successfully execute a design through to its completion.
Beyond completion, an architect often remains involved in a project as buildings evolve to incorporate new surroundings and ideas.
The aspects of an architect's work can be split into three main roles or phases:
- Design
- Documentation
- Construction
In the design role, an architect is hired by a client to produce detailed designs of a concept or idea that the client wants to bring to reality. As well as needing creative design ideas, this part of the role involves a great deal of technical knowledge and responsibility.
There is a need to comply with building and safety regulations, local planning regulations, and restrictions. Depending on the project, there may be laws surrounding the preservation of the local environment or any historical parts of a building.
Regular client meetings are important to establish requirements and discuss detailed design proposals. Also important is heading up the team of other professionals who will work on this stage of the project including engineers, designers, and financiers.
During the documentation phase, the responsibilities are to capture the design on paper, producing detailed drawings and using technology such as CAD to test the feasibility of the design. This stage can involve continual revision and redrawing to incorporate changes based on the client's requirements, budget and regulations. Once the design documents are complete, there are then a second set of documents that need to be produced.
These are the construction documents, which translate the design into instructions and technical specifications for contractors and construction experts. Once the project reaches the construction stage, the architect will be involved in site visits and meetings, overseeing the construction and signing off on various pieces of work, negotiating with contractors and dealing with and resolving any problems that arise.
