How to become an architect: What you should know

Architects play a pivotal role in shaping our environment. Becoming a highly-skilled architect can be challenging, but it can also be extremely rewarding. Find out how to start a successful architectural career and all the skills you’ll need to achieve your goals.

What is an architect?

Architects design and create plans with technical drawings for new buildings and redevelopment projects. They are also responsible for alterations or extensions to existing structures and advise on restoring and conserving old properties.

An architect's designs involve more than just its appearance. Architects must also consider factors like functionality, safety and building economics to ensure their customers' plans work. Their responsibility can even extend to the design of the surrounding landscape and spaces.

What does an architect do?

Drawing building plans can take several months for large projects. Even so, an architect’s high-level drawing skills still make up the early stages of a building project. These detailed drawings are created by hand and using specialist computer-aided design (CAD) applications.

Architects are usually involved in all phases of a construction project. They can help clients, construction contractors and quantity surveyors with their specialist construction knowledge. Architects must also embrace adaptability. Building plans can be affected by budget constraints, rising building materials costs, environmental factors and client demands.

An architect’s working day will mostly be desk or office-based, but you must also be prepared for site visits and regular client meetings. Typical tasks for an architect include:

●   developing building designs that match the client’s aspirations
●   following building laws and safety rules
●   advising clients on construction materials
●   cost analysis and environmental impact of the architectural project
●   overseeing building construction and checking progress
●   working closely with a team of other professionals, such as project managers or building service engineers
●   completing planning applications and taking advice from governmental new build departments, legal professionals and local authorities
●   preparing blueprints, construction documents, drawings and specifications to guide construction engineers.

Doing these to a high standard requires a passion for design and construction, and a sound knowledge of architectural principles. Many other qualities, including creative thinking, an eye for detail, and technical expertise, go into making a good architect.

While the job itself is demanding, navigating the design of a project from start to finish and seeing your idea come to fruition is very satisfying.

The different types of architects

There are many different types of architects, each specialising in various sectors with a specific focus.

Commercial architect

A commercial architect specialises in designing buildings for commercial use, such as hospitals, hotels, schools and skyscrapers. These projects are commonly in the public eye and involve working with the client directly. They are experts in designing functional and practical buildings that will be used by many people. Along with superb design skills and knowledge of the far more in-depth building regulations around commercial properties, commercial architects aspire for their structures to be memorable or inspirational.

If you dream of creating the next sought-after tourist spot that millions of people will photograph, this is the path for you.

Residential architect

Residential architects work with homeowners, developers and home-building firms to design homes. This could be designing a customised house for a single client, adjusting the layout of an existing home or planning the houses for a large housing development. Designing a beautiful and functional home can be surprisingly complex. You need to be familiar with the local building codes and neighbourhood restrictions. Estimating costs and materials is also vital for keeping your client’s dream home within budget.

Green design architect

Sustainable architecture is becoming increasingly common as many look to reduce the environmental impact of buildings. Green design architects are experts in producing eco-friendly and energy-efficient builds. They need an extensive knowledge of renewable energy sources, green building methods, sustainable materials (ideally locally produced) and even how to use the natural properties of the sun and shade. Green design architects must find ways to use these in a functional space that looks good. It must also fit within the natural environment in a non-obtrusive way. This is why it’s common for a sustainable architect to be more involved in building construction than other architects.

Industrial architect

Industrial architects work on factories, power plants, warehouses and other industrial facilities. Building a functional space is the priority so that it will operate as efficiently as possible. Doing this job requires a good understanding of the needs of the industry the premises are being designed for. The building needs to be the right size and have the correct power sources and storing options for the equipment and machinery. It’s common for industrial architects to rely on the client's expertise or an industry specialist to design the best layout possible.

Conservation architect

Conservation architects are tasked with restoring and protecting buildings of historical significance — castles, cathedrals, palaces, and even residential properties with historical interest. They must have an in-depth knowledge of how to maintain buildings and an awareness of the restrictions placed on listed buildings they must work within. Conservation architects can respect the period architecture while still providing functionalities expected in modern living. Preserving the beauty and craftsmanship of historic buildings means they can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Landscape architect

If you love outdoor spaces, becoming a landscape architect could be the role for you. They specialise in designing and developing outdoor spaces like golf courses, parks, and public gardens. Landscape architects must consider the layout of pathways and have expertise in horticulture. This means deciding what types of flowers, plants, trees, and other greenery should be used.

Interior architect

It’s important not to confuse an interior architect with an interior designer. An architect focuses on structural design and materials. They need a good understanding of design knowledge, such as colour theory, to convert a blank space into a habitable environment that perfectly balances beauty and practicality.

How long does it take to become an architect?

The most common (and quickest) way is to do an architecture degree at university, which takes seven years — five years of study and two years of practical experience. Architectural apprenticeships are another entry method for a career in architecture. There are two apprenticeship routes — Level 6 Architectural Assistant, including Part 1 qualification and the Level 7 Architect, including Part 2 and Part 3 qualifications. You will need to do both schemes to be able to register with the Architects Registration Board (ARB) and become a fully-fledged architect.

Each scheme takes four years to complete and combines practical experience with academic training from a university. The main benefit is that you’ll earn a salary and won’t pay for your academic tuition.

What qualifications do you need to become an architect?

Due to the competitive and academic nature of the architecture course, grade requirements are high. Different institutions have different UCAS points requirements, but more artistic subjects can be helpful, particularly for demonstrating technical drawing skills. Maths, science and design & technology are also good options. To get on an architecture course, you will usually need:

● at least 5 GCSEs at grades A* to C or equivalent, including English, maths and a science
● 2 (usually 3) A levels in relevant subjects.
How to become an architect without a degree

It isn’t possible to become a licensed architect in the UK without getting a degree. To become a qualified architect, you must complete an apprenticeship, education program or RIBA course.

However, you can still use free online learning tools to develop your knowledge. Online courses are taught by industry professionals with hands-on experience in the field, giving you valuable insights and industry-relevant guidance. This enables you to pursue your architectural aspirations, and you can still put your learning into practice as a building designer with a qualified architect by your side.