What’s an Architect’s role in a building project?

Marc Sawyer
7 min readAug 5, 2021

An architect’s job can be categorized into two main areas: the creative process and decision-making. Architects have to design spaces that are functional, enjoyable, and sustainable. In order to do this, they need to know how people function within a space (ergonomics), what features might make it more appealing or less so (aesthetics), and which materials will work best for their client’s needs. All of these factors are considered when formulating decisions about the design.

A successful architect’s job starts with good design. To put it simply, they need to be able to visualize and articulate what something will look like before they can build it. Architects need to think creatively and outside the box in order to get the job done. They also need to know how to use a wide variety of technologies, from 3-D models created on their computer screen to more traditional drawing tools like pencil and paper. It’s not enough just to come up with a solution; architects have to be able to make sure that their solution is functional as well.

Next, an Architect takes all of their creative brainstorms and turns them into real projects for their clients. The first step in this process is to create a concept and get approval from the client. After they have gotten the go-ahead, they will start working on designs for each part of their client’s project. This includes floor plans, elevations (side view), site plans, sections (cutaway images), perspectives (images seen from one point in space), and renderings.

An architect’s job is to design buildings and other structures according to the requirements of the owner. This process includes the evaluation of demand, feasibility, and environmental sustainability. Architects are also in charge of making sure buildings meet safety standards. The architect also prepares drawings and specifications for construction. They must also make sure that all structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing as well as lifesafety systems are conformed with government regulations.

Architects are also responsible for making sure that everything is aesthetically pleasing. In order to do so, they must design the building in a way that meets the client’s needs and requirements. The architect must consider all elements of the project, including site considerations, geographical location, and surrounding areas, traffic flow patterns as well as pedestrian movement.

Designing a building is not an easy task. It can be very challenging when you have multiple responsibilities in your role as an Architect. If you choose architecture as a career path, it means you are passionate about buildings and structures which means there will always be challenges ahead of you. But remember, determination makes designs come true!

To start with, Architects need to do a lot of research on their client’s needs, explore their site and establish the basics of their design. Architects must also be able to create 3D renders (3D models) and visuals using whatever tools suit their preferred process of design. They must have a strong understanding of mathematics and physics in order to be able to calculate loads and create structurally sound architectural drawings.

Architects often work with clients over many years. It can take some time to make sure that both parties are content with the outcome. In general, architects work extensively with people from other disciplines including engineers, landscape architects, interior designers, and construction managers.

It takes a team to bring the idea to life!

Architects are problem solvers. They take into consideration all the local jurisdictional rules and laws while at the same time resolving unique solutions for often very specialized owner desires. It’s also their responsibility to create realistic budgets for the projects they are developing for the client so there are no surprises once everything gets underway.

A successful Architect’s job starts with good design. To put it simply, they need to be able to visualize and articulate what something will look like before they can build it. Architects need to think creatively and outside the box in order to get the job done. They also need to know how to use a wide variety of technologies, from 3D models created on their computer screens to more traditional drawing tools like pencils and paper. It’s not enough just to come up with a solution; architects have to be able to make sure that all aspects of the project work well together for their clients. In order for architects to do this correctly, they must understand geometry, physics, and building codes. They also have to be very good at problem-solving. They need to be able to visualize a solution and then express it in drawings or models. If you decide that architecture is the path for you, be prepared for a lot of work ahead of you. The creative process and decision-making are constant aspects of your job. You’ll have to communicate effectively with builders, contractors, interior designers, structural engineers, city planners, and others who will help make your vision come true.

Architects need to think creatively and outside the box in order to get the job done. They start out with a plan that can seem rather ordinary but then they have to make an architectural design. You need to be creative to create unique approaches to resolve the client’s challenges.

An architect can design almost anything from an addition to a building to furniture and fixtures. As long as they have their imagination then anything is possible! They’ll take into consideration all different aspects of what you might want for your home or business such as; location, size, cost, among other things that would need to be considered before coming up with a solid idea. If you will be working with an Architect, remember to tell them about all the circumstances that might affect what they have to work with.

Once they’ve determined the design, they’ll go through any finalizing details. They may have to negotiate on certain parts of the building or make more changes if things aren’t turning out, but as long as it’s all done creatively then everyone will be happy in the end! It takes a true Architect to be able to materialize it into something real!

Architects also need to know how to use a wide variety of technologies, from 3-D models to more traditional drawing tools like pencil and paper. They also have many other skills that are required for the job, including:

  • Being able to communicate with clients about design choices and being able to work closely with engineers
  • Having an aesthetic sensitivity and understanding of color, light, shape, and texture
  • Understanding building codes as well as zoning restrictions and how they affect the design
  • Being able to use computer programs like Sketchup, AutoCAD, and Revit to create 3-D models of a building or structure
  • Understanding the limitations of materials
  • Understanding how materials behave
  • Understanding how buildings change over time

Next, an architect takes all of their creative brainstorms and turns them into real projects for their clients. They need to make sure that they capture the client’s needs as best possible, but may work with the client when finalizing the project to ensure satisfaction with the final product. This is where architectural design can be a challenge because architects have to balance all kinds of different preferences and factors in order to create something that will please everyone.

All of this is done (in part) using computer-aided design (CAD) software, which architects use to draft their plans for a project. An architect draws up the designs and documents everything that needs to happen in order for a project to get approved, built, occupied, and used by people.

But before anything can come into existence on paper or digitally, an architect needs to go through a very intensive process of brainstorming. This part takes the longest time for an architect because they need to be able to visualize different plans and scenarios — and also see how clients would react and respond based on certain design principles (form, material, function).

The first step in this process is to create a plan and get approval from the client. After they’ve gotten the go-ahead, they will start working on the other areas of design. There are many different aspects of architectural design such as construction drawings and sketches, developing the materials list, integrating sustainable features into the design, programming trades for each phase of construction, and more. They’re also responsible for developing the design and producing construction documents as its being designed. During the planning stage of a project, an Architect often assists clients in choosing a site; researching zoning requirements, building codes, and environmental impact. The architect takes into account the natural environment when they’re creating plans for the interior or exterior spaces.

Architects are the creative minds behind some of our favorite buildings and structures. They work with clients to create a plan for their project, which includes everything from programming to details. It’s important that an architect has taken into account all aspects of a client’s needs when they’re designing. This understanding will affect how well the building performs for their client. Whether you’re looking for someone who specializes in residential design, commercial architecture, or more-you need an expert on your side if you want quality results!

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Marc Sawyer
Marc Sawyer

Written by Marc Sawyer

I’m an Architect. My favorite thing to do is create stories through architectural design. Founder of Whitewash Studio architecture firm in Atlanta, GA.

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