Pure Potential

All About Careers - Architecture

Virtually every building you see will have been designed and planned by an architect, from the house you live in to the school you attend to architectural masterpieces of buildings such as the Shard in London. A career in architecture could find you working on big public buildings, restoring amazing historical buildings or designing the perfect affordable family home.

Architects often have to plan every detail of a structure, from the tiniest design detail to the largest possible construction feature. It’s not just about building from scratch; architects are also needed for building extensions, securing planning permission and restoring buildings. Most architects start work in private practices or for larger companies. There are even architects hired by the government who mainly work on public structures.

Qualifying as an architect is no walk in the park. It can take up to seven years: you’ll need an architecture degree, two years of professional experience and throughout that time you’ll have to pass various exams. After that, you must apply to the Architects Registration Board and obtain chartered membership from the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)! Phew!

Budding architects need superb I.T. and maths skills, great teamwork and an eye for design. You’ll need tip-top communication skills too, as you’ll need to negotiate between demanding clients, construction workers, engineers and colleagues. Above all, you’ll need great problem-solving skills as you attempt to turn your ideas into bricks and mortar.

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