Architect

An Architect is a highly accomplished and skilled professional who designs buildings and organises space. As per law, Architects in the UK need to be qualified and registered with the Architects Registration Board (ARB) which means that they are suitably qualified, and have Professional Indemnity Insurance (PI) and comply with set standards.

Architects work on both industrial and residential projects and are accountable for designing, obtaining planning permission, hiring contractors and supervising the construction process.
Architects work in the construction business and are involved with designing different buildings, extensions or modifications to existing buildings, or advising on the refurbishment and conservation of old properties. They can work on individual structures or on large redevelopment schemes, and can be responsible for the design of the neighbouring landscape.

Architects are involved from the initial stages of a building project, which can start with evolving ideas with the client, establishing budgets, evaluating the needs of the building and its effect within the local environment. Architects work closely with their customer and users to make sure that projected designs complement their needs, and are functional, secure and economical. They usually control a project from start to finish and work with a number of construction specialists, including surveyors and engineers, producing diagrams and specifications that the construction team works to.

They assist with site selection and work closely with contractors on location, ensuring that works are carried out to precise standards and, above all, make sure that the building is viable, functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Typical work Role and Responsibilities include:

• Discussing the objectives, necessities and budget of a project;
• Discussing with other professionals about the design of an environment;
• Preparing and presenting feasibility reports and design proposals to the customer;
• Informing the customer on the practicality of their project;
• Helping in site selection;
• Using IT in design and project management, exclusively using software packages such as Computer Aided Design;
• Keeping within financial costs and time limits;
• Producing detailed workings, drawings and specifications;
• Stipulating the nature and quality of materials required;
• Preparing tender applications and presentations;
• Negotiating with professionals and other contractors;
• Preparing submissions for planning and building control departments;
• Preparing tender documents for contracts;
• Managing the project and co-coordinating the work of contractors;
• Monitoring a project from start to finish;
• Regular site visits to check on development, make sure that the project is running on time and to budget;
• Solving problems and disputes that may arise during construction;
• Make sure that the environmental effect of the project is limited.

Skills and Personal Qualities of an Architect
An architect should:

• Have robust visual awareness and an eye for detail
• Have remarkable drawing abilities, with the skill to work in three dimensions (3D)
• Be inventive and creative
• Have reasonable mathematical skills
• Be computer literate with CAD experience and understanding
• Have exceptional verbal and written interaction skills
• Be able to organize and manage projects
• Have a logical, and creative attitude to problem solving
• Have time management abilities
• Be self-confident and able to deal with criticism of their work
• Be able to govern others.
• Be interested in buildings and the built environment
• Care about other individuals, the environment and the impact that structures have upon them.

About Author / Additional Info:
Article created by Will for http://www.justaskdino.com

Just Ask Dino provides info on building questions and planning information. Look out for http://www.forum.justaskdino.com