Architecture is a dream job for many young people. Although you ideally need to complete a Master’s Degree in Architecture before you start working as a junior architect, the rewards are worth the long years of study for the correct candidate.
Necessary Characteristics
People who want to become architects should be artistic, meticulous and well organised. They should be very good at verbal communication in order to get their ideas across and to defend their stance on a project, yet still be able to satisfy the client’s needs. Creativity is essential, as is an ability to perceive the bigger picture.
An Exciting Career
Architects are never bored. The profession is a very varied one and you are seldom desk-bound for long. Working on site with many different people such as contractors and engineers is exciting and challenging. A company that supplies architect services is versatile – design, knowledge of construction and materials, use of colour and environmental-impact studies all form part of an architect’s field of expertise. Many architects can therefore branch out in other directions once they have experience in these areas.
Innovation
New methods of design and construction are continuously evolving. Green design is an exciting development for architects, as they can experience the satisfaction of having a positive impact on the environment. The satisfaction of personal expression and of seeing your own personal stamp on a new building is hard to attain in most other professions.
Respect
Even junior architects are well respected by society. Once you have earned your dues and gained experience, you can become a partner in a firm or even start your own business. The advantage of large firms, however, is that they offer benefits such as medical-insurance schemes and paid vacations.
As long as there is a need for new buildings, architects will continue to be in demand. It’s also worth remembering that if you are registered as an architect in the UK, it is easy to register and work in another European country.