Architecture is a profession that requires being really “good” in many significant subjects, especially to have a good university education. In order to do your job at your best, there are many things that you need to improve yourself in architecture, from your design skills to construction laws. Architects are in every aspect of a project process, from abstract thinking to customer relations, from site controls to 2 and 3 dimensional drawings, which we call architectural representation. Every project, whether large-scale or small-scale, needs a good team in these matters.
If you are preparing for the profession of architecture or interested in architecture, besides what we learn in architecture school, there are some issues that you should know well in professional life. In this article, we have talked about 5 important things you need to learn as an architect.
Conceptualization
Abstract thinking is a design skill that architects and all designers should have. Concepts are abstract elements that form the basis of design in architecture. As an architect, your approach to the project develops with a well-analyzed site and program supported by a good concept. Conceptual thinking abstracts your approach to the project and ensures that everything you do has meaning. The concept is important from the environmental design of a building to the smallest details. Sticking to a concept is very important for architects. The originality of your project depends on the concepts of that context. Good architects think good concepts for a long time. Search for concepts everywhere to improve your design skills!
Computing Skills
Architectural drawing and rendering software is one of the main subjects you need to improve yourself today. There are dozens of architectural drawing software, from 2D plan section drawings to renderings. Since your student years, you can make architectural drawings and presentations in digital environment with software that you can best express yourself. Generally, good knowledge of AutoCAD and ArchiCAD is required for 2D drawings. 3D modeling, on the other hand, depends on the conditions of the office you work in professional life. For example, if you work in a company that uses BIM, you must know Revit very well. Good modeling ensures quality renders.
For the best rendering results, we recommend that you be good at rendering software such as Lumion, V-ray. Architectural representation is the best way to express your projects and ideas. For this reason, the biggest condition for improving your representation style in today’s conditions is to improve your computing skills.
Math and Material Knowledge
You must be well-versed in the strengths, weaknesses, and other properties of various materials, as well as their ability to bear weight under stress in order to create safe buildings. Geometry, mathematics, physics, and more complex math ideas are all required in architecture. You may need to come up with new ideas to solve problems, such as developing earthquake-resistant structures or energy-efficient, long-term complexes. It will not always be possible to rely solely on tried-and-true methods.
Communication Skills
In order to complete a project, Nashville architects advise that architects must collaborate closely with clients, site engineers, construction workers, and other stakeholders. To successfully create a design and see a project through to completion, an architect must first grasp what all of these people are saying and then communicate with them clearly. Every building project necessitates the
formation of a group. Whether architects have good communication with the whole team and customers, manage the project process well. It helps to make a good impression for their next job as well. Architects always should take a quality stance in professional life with their speech and communication skills.
Construction Laws
In construction industry; what can be built, where it can be built, and how it can be built are all governed by zoning regulations and building codes. Some of these requirements, such as the number and size of windows for distinct building kinds, are directly related to the architect’s work. Some rules make it illegal to construct in particular areas, such as wetlands or flood zones. Some rules do not directly involve the architect, but if you don’t grasp how zoning and building codes function in the construction field, all your efforts will be for naught.To be a good architect, you need to be making the best of these checks. It is your responsibility as an architect to know the laws and rules of construction well.
