Claire
Is most of the job from behind a computer screen?
I'm in 12th grade this year and I am considering going into architecture because it involves designing and I am interested in architecture because I love seeing big or beautiful old buildings.
3 answers
Michael Okpala
Michael’s Answer
Designing and drafting architectural plans, creating 3D models, conducting research, coordinating with clients and other professionals, and managing projects are all tasks that require computer work. Additionally, architects often spend a considerable amount of time communicating via email, participating in virtual meetings, and preparing presentations using digital tools.
That being said, it's not all desk work. Architects also have the opportunity to visit construction sites, interact with clients and stakeholders, and collaborate with colleagues in person. Depending on your role and the projects you're involved in, you may have the chance to witness the construction process and see your designs come to life.
If you're genuinely passionate about architecture, it's important to embrace the digital tools and technologies that are an integral part of the profession today. They enable architects to efficiently create and communicate their designs, collaborate with others, and stay up-to-date with the latest industry standards.
Ultimately, the balance between computer work and other activities can vary depending on the specific architectural role and the projects you work on. It's essential to consider this aspect when deciding to pursue a career in architecture, but don't let it discourage you if you're genuinely interested in the field.
Thank you, Michael you gave me a lot of information and a lot more to think about.
Claire
Rana Fathi
Rana’s Answer
Architecture is a super interesting field! Even though I don't have first-hand experience with architecture, I have 2 siblings who have been architects for 10+ years, so let me tell you my observations. The curriculum differs from place to place, but you do get to learn some computer programs to create 2D and 3D designs. A lot of projects are also done by hand, like cutting up cardboard to make up a solution to a housing complex or a mall, you can even add your own trees and toy cars in the parking lot! 😀
After you're done studying, you'll work with concept sketching, freehand drawing, and of course computer tools! It's also a job with a great growth trajectory, allowing you to possibly manage entire projects after some experience, and we'll never run out of buildings to make! If you love big old buildings, you'll love learning the art history portions. It's definitely a creative field, but nothing is 100% creativity alone, you'll gain a lot of valuable people's management and communication skills, and you'll train your brain to come up with feasible solutions as time goes on.
That sounds great! Thank you for your answer it was very insightful and I didn't know you got to work with that many different types of mediums. That is very cool thanks again.
Claire
Aimé Barcillon
Aimé’s Answer
To be honest it is true that most part of the construction jobs now need to be good with software.
If you like beautiful buildings you must know most of the time they are quite difficult to design and there are many standards and norms nowadays that regulate the design of new buildings.
Concerning old buildings, there more and more informatic tools to help architects or engineers to preserve them, photogrammetric software is for example an amazing tool to model old buildings.
Architecture is a quite expensive career but if you really can afford to be an architect and manage to be good with all those technical advancements you might be able to design your own buildings some day.
You should read Walter Gropius works who was the father of modern archtecture and Eugène Viollet-le-duc the most important all time monument curator.
Cheers