An architect works in the construction industry and is mainly responsible for designing new buildings and the spaces around them. He has to work closely with users, clients and officials to make sure that projected designs match the needs of the end users. Architects have to work on new buildings, and also have to develop groups of buildings in area restoration projects. Apart from being involved in new building they have to also design alterations to existing buildings, and have to give advice on the restoration and conservation of old properties.
An architect cannot work alone and on every project that he works on he has to work closely with other professionals like engineers and surveyors, in order to ensure that their buildings meet the necessary standards set by the concerned authorities. They also have to work a lot with construction specialists on site and oversee projects from beginning to end when they are ready to be used and are completed as per their designs.
The main activates that an architect is involved is to inspect the project from the earliest stages of a building project, from site selection through to completion. They remain actively involved throughout all the projects as their ideas and plans are turned into reality. They work closely with contractors on site, and have to ensure that work is carried out to specific standards and that any problems that crop up are quickly resolved.
The typical work of the architect is to consult with other professionals about the design of a project and to prepare and present design proposals to the client. They have to be up to date with the changes in technology and have to use IT in design and project management, specifically software packages such as Auto Cad and Sketch Up. They need to advise the client on the practicality of their project and keep within financial budgets and deadlines set by the client.
The architect also needs to produce detailed drawings from which the cost of the product is calculated. They need to prepare tender applications and presentations of the project. They are also responsible for negotiating with contractors and other professionals. They need to prepare planning applications and coordinate the work of contractors. They have to make site visits to check on progress and ensuring that the project is running within the agreed timescale and have to solve problems that might occur during the work carried out on the site. They also have to carry out defect inspections. Through all these activities, architects also need to have an understanding of the complex processes of design and construction to build buildings and projects which are socially and ecologically sustainable and are in accordance with the environmental guidelines.
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