An Architectural engineer is responsible for the design and construction of buildings, and all related structures. As such, they are considered to be integral members of the architectural team. Architectural design is the term used to describe the process by which building plans are created and implemented in order to meet the needs of the business or organization. Commercial Architect is the term used to describe professionals in this field who have both the skills and the training required to create and manage commercial structures.
As a licensed professional, a commercial architect can specialize in one form of architecture or building design. In addition, those architects, who are part of a commercial Architect firm, can work as part of an overall team handling a variety of different projects. An architect who works for a commercial firm will typically specialize in one aspect of commercial construction, such as residential architecture. The structure of residential buildings, while more solid and long-term, is also very flexible, making it easy to add or subtract rooms, floors, or features as the building ages. Residential architects also require the training and expertise to ensure the structural integrity of the homes and the longevity of the materials used.
Residential commercial projects can be extremely complex, involving everything from floor plans and building designs to environmentally controlled bathrooms and kitchens. A commercial architect often works closely with designers and engineers, as well as architects, project managers, and construction experts. These professionals must be skilled at the drafting and designing of homes and offices, as well as working within codes and regulations designed to protect both the general public and those who will be living or visiting the structures.
In commercial construction, architectural schematics represent actual images of the finished project at different stages of construction. Not only are architects required to demonstrate the accuracy of their plans and drawings, but they must also use them to create a foundation for the designs that they have developed. A blueprint represents an accurate image of the building that exists, complete with all features, including any modifications that will be made during the construction process. Schematics give designers and builders an accurate graphical view of the finished product, allowing them to see exactly where everything needs to be situated. It’s important to review schematics carefully before a project is launched.
Besides providing critical information on the architectural schematics, commercial architects also need to know about local and state building codes. This knowledge not only helps them decide how to design a home or office building, but it also determines whether or not local and state laws will be followed when the project is completed. Every building project requires building codes to be passed before construction begins, and these codes vary by state. Professional architect’s review and update these plans as changes occur in local and state laws.
The requirements of obtaining a professional bachelor degree are not necessarily unique to architects design buildings. Most fields of engineering require a certain amount of formal education, and most engineers have to go through at least three years of formal education before obtaining their degree. In many states, all engineers have to be licensed before they can apply for construction jobs, though this is not the case for all states. Many engineers get a bachelor’s degree through trade schools or community colleges, then pursue a professional bachelor degree through an accredited university.
To learn more about choosing an architect, it may be helpful to visit a few schools that offer special programs in commercial architecture. These programs usually take two to four years and include both classroom work and on-the-job training, and allow students to gain the experience necessary to land a job in commercial architecture. For architects who already have a degree, an even better fit might be to get into an apprenticeship program. A number of private employers have special apprenticeship programs that hire talented young professionals with a love of architecture.
If you’re considering a career as a commercial architect, getting started on the right foot should be a top priority. Learning as much as possible about the different paths to choose will help you make the best possible decision. With the right training and experience, you can choose to be a commercial planner or building architect, or even be a landscape designer.
