what is an architect?
Architecture isn't simply about building physical surroundings. Architects shape us and tell our stories. Their work identifies a region and distinguishes society's values by building our structures. As an architect, you design cultural nuances that define how we choose to present ourselves. You use science and art while drawing on sociology, psychology and economics. You also spend time understanding communities and — with an emotional, technological and intellectual understanding — create spaces that connect and unify people.
Architects are trained professionals qualified to design and advise on the unique aesthetic planning and execution of structures. However, there is far more to an architect than just designing buildings.
As an architect, you fire the starting pistol for every home, office building, restaurant, park, school and plenty else. In addition to designing, as part of a team, you often help supervise the construction process. You blend diverse disciplines to create functional designs. You do all of this while addressing health and safety protocols as well as building regulations.
Would working as an architect suit your interest in design? Then read on to find out what competencies and qualifications you need to thrive in an architect role.
architect jobsaverage architect salary
As an architect, you earn a median salary of €44,000 per year, equalling an average hourly rate of approximately €22. Your compensation package fluctuates based on diverse factors. In an entry-level position, your starting salary as a junior architect is approximately €31,000 annually. As you improve your skills and experience, you progress to senior architect roles, with the potential to earn over €54,000 per year.
what factors affect the salary of an architect?
Your compensation package as an architect depends on your education level and the position you hold in the company. For instance, as a junior architect, you receive a lower salary than a senior architect. Junior architects handle small projects and may not have the expertise to deal with large-scale projects. In a senior architect position, you have the necessary experience and qualifications to handle complex tasks. Hence, you can negotiate higher pay.
The company's size and the project scope also influence your earnings. When you work in a large construction company, you are likely to handle large projects with vast budgets. The complexity of your tasks warrants a higher salary. Smaller companies have limited resources and may not afford to pay higher earnings.
types of architects
Some of the different types of architects include:
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residential architects
As a residential architect, you utilise artistic skill and design programs to create, shape and remodel homes. These include houses, residential towers and other structures. You design and draw out plans and may even be responsible for developing a budget for the build.
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interior design architects
In this role, you ensure that the interior elements of a building are comfortable, safe and pleasing to the eye. Interior architects (and designers) handle everything, from making certain that a new building's individual floors meet regulations to remodelling kitchens in private homes. Take into account that not all interior designers are architects. Some professionals use their eye for detail to manage colours and fabrics with an artistic sensibility. They research and compare varying elements to form cohesive wholes.
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urban design architects
Like landscape architects, urban design architects are tasked with creating large-scale designs. The difference is that urban design architects use their training to build neighbourhoods. Your job is to lay out an entire block or blocks of landscape to achieve a desired aesthetic. Depending on the project, you may consider specific structures and where to place shrubbery and trees.
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industrial architects
As an architect in an industrial building, you are expected to develop a structure that facilitates the smooth running of business operations. It is important to consider the unique properties of all varying organisational needs. For instance, an automobile manufacturer does not need the same facilities as a dairy producer. Even companies in the same industry may require different processes. Overall, industrial architects need a deep understanding of these facilities to create designs that meet exact specifications.
working as an architect
Working as an architect is an interesting career with promising job prospects. Let’s discover the duties, work environments and career opportunities for architects.
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what does an architect do?
Some of the typical duties and responsibilities of architects include:
- Initial consultation with clients: as an architect, you meet with clients to determine their needs. Your job is to provide preliminary design ideas and get information to help you design the architectural plans. You also advise clients on possible challenges and construction time estimates.
- Design development: as an architect, you use the client's information to draft the building's initial design. You create the initial sketches and models for the projects. You show clients the drafts and discuss possible changes to improve the final design.
- Project planning: while your duties are focused on designing sketches and the architectural designs of a building, you are sometimes expected to plan the construction project. You work with contractors, quantity surveyors and engineers to determine the project's requirements. Aside from negotiating contracts, you create a budget for the project and determine the materials to be used.
- Preparing documentation: as an architect, you are responsible for preparing the building documentation required for construction. You create detailed blueprints and prepare specification documents using building information modelling (BIM) programs and computer-aided design (CAD) software. You collaborate with various professionals to create technical documentation for the construction teams.
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work environment of an architect
Most architects operate from offices, working on drafts, filing permit applications and developing cost estimates. Much of this work is done on a computer. However, you may travel to construction sites to negotiate with site agents, civil engineers, clients and contractors. In other architectural roles, you call or meet up with drafters, engineers, utility professionals and other architects.
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who are your colleagues?
As an architect, you work alongside various construction professionals. You are likely to collaborate with civil engineers and construction managers. You also work with site managers, cost estimators and project managers to ensure the success of construction projects.
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architect work schedule
Architects work uneven hours to meet deadlines, especially when juggling multiple projects. Work performance requires accuracy since architectural errors create hazards for structures and buildings. Your decisions impact communities, and it's a big responsibility to bear. However, as long as you don't interfere with your client's projects, you have a certain amount of freedom to manage tasks and goals on your own schedule.
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career opportunities as an architect
Architects frequently use various computer programs, such as AutoCAD and BIM software. There are also a range of cloud-based technologies that help architects create designs. Furthermore, artificial intelligence (AI), virtual reality and augmented reality tools are replacing a lot of traditional tasks and streamlining architectural processes. With technological advancements, architects have the opportunity to create highly advanced architectural structures and focus more on various specialisation areas.
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advantages of finding a job as an architect through randstad
Working with Randstad offers you a range of benefits.
- always a contact person you can fall back on and ask for help
- a range of jobs in your area
architect skills and education
To become an architect, you require the following educational qualifications:
- Education: to become an architect in Greece, you require a bachelor's degree in architecture. Pursue a course at a recognised university or an architectural institute. Academic training takes five years, and after completion, you can take the professional examination before a jury from the Technical Chamber.
- Work experience: you should register with the Technical Chamber of Greece. It is also important to improve your experience through practical training or internships. Start your career in architecture by working in entry-level positions related to the role.
competencies and characteristics of architects
The skills and qualities needed to succeed as an architect include:
- Analytical aptitude: architects need comprehensive knowledge of mathematics, science and design elements. Architecture work generally requires precision on all these fronts.
- Communication: as an architect, you utilise a range of communication channels to get your concepts across. The collaborative aspect of the profession requires you to be able to convey your messages to several stakeholders and collaborators clearly and concisely.
- Creativity: an artistic flair is critical to designing, organising and laying out plans. You should blend functionality and form seamlessly. For instance, you put environmental impacts into the equation and consider how best to represent a community and its leaders' intent innovatively.
- Organisation: records are an important part of your day-to-day operations. Blueprints, renderings, drawings, contracts and correspondence are critical to project management. Charting progress and keeping track of material lists, project details, and cost analysis is vital. It is crucial to realise the importance of tracking all materials regarding your projects in a mannered fashion.
- Technical expertise: software and digital technology are changing the game. It is important to keep track of technological tools and stay competitive. Failing to stay up to date with the latest tools and programs makes you less attractive to potential clients and employers.
- Visualisation skills: as an architect, you look at every part of a structure, relate it to all other sections, and keep a spatial recognition of how all the components work together. Hence, you need exceptional technical drawing skills.
FAQs
Here, you will find the answers to the most frequently asked questions about the profession of an architect.
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what are the duties and responsibilities of an architect?
As an architect, you design new buildings that meet the client’s requirements. You also design extensions, renovations, and restoration plans to align with sustainability principles and client needs. After the design process, you collaborate with the construction team to deliver functional and visually appealing designs.
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what makes a good architect?
As an architect, you spend most of your time creating functional drawings and building models that meet clients' needs. You require exceptional design skills to create visually appealing structures. Your computer skills and technical proficiency help you design and draw building specifications using CAD software.
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what is the role of the architect after construction?
After construction, an architect inspects the building to ensure the rooms are well-positioned. You also make sure that the ventilation, plumbing, electrical and heating systems are positioned correctly.
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how do I become an architect?
To work as an architect in Greece, pursue a bachelor's degree in architecture. The five-year course prepares you for the role by equipping you with knowledge of construction design. You should also register with the Technical Chamber of Greece before you start working.
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how much do you earn as an architect in greece?
Architects take home an average salary of €44,000 per year or an hourly rate of €22. Your compensation package fluctuates based on qualifications. Hence, you start with a salary of approximately €31,000 annually, but in a senior position, you can take home over €54,000 per year.
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how do I find a job as an architect?
Finding a job near you as an architect is easy. Search our job offers. Have you found what you're looking for? Then submit your application using the ‘Apply’ button top right on the page. No jobs available right now? Then log in or register an account to send us your resume and we'll pass it on to a recruiter who will contact you if an opportunity opens up for you.
