Architect

Architects specialise in the design and construction of new buildings, the restoration and conservation of old buildings, as well as urban and rural planning. A typical building project starts with a brief from a client, detailing the work to be done, the budget available and the expected completion date. After discussing the feasibility of the project, taking into account a survey of the proposed site and any associated legal, planning or cost implications, the architect uses his or her creative skills and practical knowledge of structures and materials to produce a design for the building. Once this design is agreed with the client, detailed working drawings are produced for the builder, specifying precise dimensions and the materials to be used.

It may be several years before the building is completed and the architect must be prepared to see the project through to its conclusion. This usually involves regular site visits to inspect the construction work, administering the construction contract for the client, authorising payments and solving problems. The work requires frequent negotiation with building contractors, engineers, surveyors, lawyers and planning departments.

The architect has both professional and legal responsibilities to ensure not only that the client's needs are met but also that the building conforms to all construction regulations currently in force.

Entry level
The starting point is to meet the entry requirements of a degree course at one of 36 schools of architecture in the UK offering qualifications recognised by the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and the Architects Registration Board (ARB). These are usually expressed as a minimum of two A levels/AH grades or three H grades plus five GCSE/S grades (A-C/1-3) to include maths, English language, double award science or a single science in either chemistry or physics. Some courses specify maths, physics or art at A level/AH/H grade. Equivalent qualifications are considered, together with the more practical route of obtaining at least six years' experience in an architectural practice before progressing to a relevant degree.

While it is not always essential to have an art qualification, you should be able to sketch and draw freehand. Before offering you a place, most schools of architecture would ask you to produce a portfolio of drawings and sketches as evidence of your creative skills and awareness of architecture. Work experience in an architect's office is particularly valuable.

Making the grade
You must train for at least seven years before being able to register as an architect with the ARB. All UK schools of architecture offer similar courses, although some include specialisms in subjects such as environmental design, interior design, town planning and engineering.

The training involves three key stages, usually starting with a three-year intermediate degree, known as Part 1, and followed by professional practice for at least a year in an architect's office. You would then progress to a two-year further degree, known as Part 2, and another year of professional practice. The final stage, known as Part 3, is the Professional Practice Examination, covering areas such as design ability, management, organisational skills, contract law and relevant legislation.

Having gained these qualifications, you can register as an architect with the ARB and become a chartered member of a relevant professional body. You would be expected to update your skills by attending short courses and continuing your professional development.

Personal qualities
Architecture requires a combination of creative design flair and practical awareness of construction technology. Good drawing skills are essential, together with the ability to think in three dimensions and sufficient IT awareness to use increasingly sophisticated computer-aided design packages.

You would need a logical and analytical approach to problem solving and the ability to work on several projects at the same time, always paying careful attention to detail. Good communication and negotiating skills are important for dealing with clients, consultants and external organisations, and there is normally a strong team element within architecture. You need to be physically fit to cope with site inspections, although there is scope for people with disabilities to qualify and succeed as architects.

Above all, you should be interested in buildings and how they are used, and sensitive to the social and environmental factors affecting the people who occupy them.

Looking ahead
Most of the 30,000 or so qualified architects in the UK are self-employed. There is no set promotional structure within private sector architecture and your career progress will depend on your skill, competence and experience.

As a recently qualified architect, you would usually join a firm as a salaried employee on a contract, and in due course may become an associate. Larger practices may offer promotion to various levels, culminating in a partnership, or you may decide to set up your own practice.

In the public sector, you can progress to chief architect level.

Alternative suggestions
If you are interested in the design and construction of buildings, you may also consider training as an architectural technologist, building surveyor, civil engineer, interior designer, landscape architect or town planner.

Take-home pay
There is great variation in salaries within the profession, depending on the type of practice or organisation. London rates are higher than in the rest of the UK, large firms usually pay more than small ones, and the private sector generally offers more generous salaries than the public sector. The average salary for a qualified architect with experience is £30,000.

New entrants studying for RIBA exams start at around £12,500, while newly qualified architects earn around £18,000 and senior architects upwards of £35,000.

Effects
Although architects may have a basic 9 to 5, Monday to Friday working week, deadlines and workload can lead to unsociable hours in the evening and at weekends. You would spend most of your time in an office, but could be outdoors in all weathers when making site inspections.

Job sharing and part-time work is common in architecture, as is contract and freelance work.

Sources of information
Architects Registration Board: www.arb.org.uk
Royal Institute of British Architects: www.architecture.com
Royal Incorporation of Architects in Scotland: www.rias.org.uk
Royal Society of Architects in Wales: www.architecture-wales.com
Royal Society of Ulster Architects: www.rsua.org.uk

CRCI: BA