Architect
Architects work in the construction industry and are involved with designing new buildings, extensions or alterations to existing buildings, or advising on the restoration and conservation of old properties. They can work on individual buildings or on large redevelopment schemes, and can be responsible for the design of the surrounding landscape and spaces.
Architects work closely with their client and users to make sure that projected designs match their needs, and are functional, safe and economical. They usually control a project from start to finish and work with a number of construction professionals, including surveyors and engineers, producing drawings and specifications that the construction team works to.
Architects are involved from the earliest stages of a building project, which can start with developing ideas with the client, establishing budgets, assessing the needs of the building and its users, and its impact within the local environment. They assist with site selection and work closely with contractors on site, ensuring that works are carried out to specific standards and that above all, the building is sustainable, functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Work activities vary but typically include:
Salary figures are intended as a guide only.
You must register with the statutory body, the Architects Registration Board (ARB) , in order to legally use the title ‘architect’ in the UK. Chartered architect status is available through membership of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) which allows use of the affix ‘RIBA’ after an architect’s name.
The standard entry route into the architecture profession entails at least seven years in training and higher education. This consists of:
Many universities hold interviews with students prior to offering a place on an architecture course. Potential students are expected to have a portfolio demonstrating a broad mixture of work, including sketches, freehand drawings, photographs and models.
Some universities may offer advanced credit to students who have completed a degree or modules of a degree in a related subject. There is also an alternative route to qualification that does not involve attending courses at a school of architecture. The RIBA Examination in Architecture for Office-based Candidates is open for people who have a minimum of three years’ experience working in an architectural practice. The programme is available at Part 1 and Part 2 level and is completed through self-study and distance learning while the candidate remains working full-time in the practice. It is delivered in partnership with the School of Architecture - Oxford Brookes University .
The RIBA does not offer conversion courses for graduates with non-accredited or unrelated degrees. Graduates or architects with non-accredited or international qualifications may be able to undertake an assessment for equivalence with the Architects Registration Board.
As well as the technical skills gained through study, architects need to show evidence of the following:
A driving licence may be required for some positions.
Students should generally practise drawing to enhance their skills. Model-making skills are also an advantage. It is important to take an interest in publications or TV programmes about buildings and to keep up to date with the current trends in architecture and design.
In addition to the professional experience required, any pre-entry work experience in an architectural or building environment is desirable and is highly regarded by recruiters. Many firms offer internship opportunities over the summer vacation which can offer invaluable experience.
Students should try to develop contacts in the industry, possibly through work experience, academic departments, personal contacts and local representatives of professional bodies and associations. Joining one of the professional bodies, which usually offer free student membership, provides access to professional journals and information about vacancies.
For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.
The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) manages a web-based Professional Education and Development Resource (PEDR) for students undertaking the practical experience elements of an architect’s training. The PEDR provides information and guidance and also contains an online diary facility which students use to keep a record of their practical experience. Records completed on the PEDR are required to be produced at the Part 3 final qualifying examination.
It is essential to keep abreast of legislation, compliance and reporting requirements through continuing professional development (CPD). Attending internal and external training courses, relevant seminars and conferences is an effective way of keeping up to date with current issues and refreshing knowledge. Most large firms offer structured training and encourage professional status.
Chartered architects are required to complete a minimum of 35 hours of CPD per year to maintain their competence. The mandatory part of the RIBA’s CPD curriculum is made up of ten topics. Chartered architects must carry out at least two hours of study in each of these every year:
Gaining chartered membership of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and undertaking agreed levels of continuing professional development (CPD) are key parts of career development, and will enable progression to more senior posts.
In private practices there is no set career structure, with promotion and career development dependant on the individual firm, and on the architect’s professional competence, reputation and field of employment. Generally, there are more opportunities to advance through the company structure with larger firms. With experience, a considerable number of architects set up their own practices.
In the public sector career progression differs in structure and is influenced by the nature and responsibilities of public institutions. In local authorities and in the civil service, it is possible to progress to the position of chief architect, or to become head of a much larger department employing other built environment professionals. It is also common for professionals to move between local authorities and between organisations in the private sector in order to gain broader experience and seek more senior positions.
There are also opportunities to move into lecturing work in universities or into specialist fields such as project management, planning, landscape architecture or conservation. There are also many opportunities in consultancy or for employment overseas, as all the big construction and engineering companies operate throughout the world, with British qualifications widely accepted and respected in many countries.
The environmental field is a growing area of work and there are increasing opportunities for professionals in this field to become involved in the planning process for environmentally sensitive development schemes.
There are around 30,000 architects in the UK, with most being self-employed or working in private practice as partners, associates or salaried architects. Private practices can range from small to medium-sized firms (SMEs) to much larger practices that will incorporate other professional areas such as planning, urban design, construction or project management.
Central and local government also employs architects, usually in planning departments. Other employers include construction companies, commercial and industrial organisations and retailers and manufacturers.
There are also many consultants that employ architects. Their clients may include central and local government, private developers, house builders and firms across the construction industry.
Teaching and research opportunities on architectural courses, available with training providers and in higher and further education, are also available.
Recruitment agencies also handle vacancies. See the Recruitment and Employment Confederation (REC) for details.
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