Architect

These were the words of renowned 20th Century German-American architect, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, also known as one of the pioneers of modern architecture.

His words strike us with their stark simplicity. They draw attention to what perhaps makes architecture such a fascinating subject - that from something so simple, as two bricks placed together, something so complex, as entire buildings, structures or monuments, are created.

Map My Talent offers comprehensive career information about Architecture as a career option.

What Is Architecture?

An architect is a scientist and artist rolled into one. He/she is involved in many activities like 

Design: An architect primarily designs buildings. An architect carefully makes plans, based on which the building is constructed. An architect also looks at the way in which the space gets utilized, depending on what function the building will serve and how many people will use it. For instance a hospital has to be designed and built differently from an office or a school.

When making a plan, the architect takes into account many practical issues such as climatic conditions, water supply and drainage, electricity supply, orientation, topography of the land and multiple other such factors. He/she usually possess sound engineering knowledge as well as practical knowledge about building materials, public convenience facilities such as parking etc. Safety is another very important factor, that Architects looks at while designing the building

The architect also looks into the aesthetics of the building based on what it represents. Will it reflect a certain philosophy? Will it show comfort or represent luxury? Will it represent opulence and richness of life or minimalistic beauty? Will it have intricate structures or stark, straight, direct lines?

Renovation and conservation: Many a times, the work of an Architect is also to renovate or structurally modify the existing buildings. He/she also looks into conservation of old and heritage structures.