Bta-Architects are professionals that plan, design, and supervise the construction of buildings. They also create aesthetically pleasing and safe buildings. In addition, they may also introduce (intentionally or unintentionally) aspects of environmental sustainability into the construction process.
Architects plan, design, and supervise the construction of buildings
An architect is a professional who plans, designs, and supervises the construction of buildings. They may work as part of a design team, or they may be independent.
Architects are tasked with transforming the vision of their clients into a building. They create designs for buildings of all sizes, from small homes to large corporate campuses. Their work is governed by local, state, and federal laws. Depending on the jurisdiction, architects also have to comply with health and safety rules. Some jurisdictions require that architects sign off on any final construction documents.
During the construction process, architects may visit the site to ensure that the contractor is following the plan. They may also provide advice on energy efficiency measures.
Architects must maintain a thorough understanding of the construction industry. This includes a familiarity with building codes, construction techniques, and materials. Additionally, they must be able to deal with problems that arise.
They create aesthetically pleasing and safe buildings
Aside from the obvious building, architects also come up with innovative ideas to improve the lives of the people that reside in or visit their creations. From time saving tips to environmentally friendly solutions, they are on the front lines of the construction industry. They help ensure that the building you construct will not only be an architectural marvel, but will be safe, sound and in a good neighborhood.
While most will take a stab at the traditional construction tasked with the likes of a home improvement project, the architects of tomorrow are looking to the future with innovations like smart homes and solar powered buildings. To help achieve these lofty goals, architects are experimenting with new concepts and materials. In fact, one of the most innovative architectural companies in the world is a company that specializes in converting buildings into solar powered, energy efficient structures.
They supervise the construction process
The role of an architect is to oversee the construction process from the conceptual phase to completion. During the design and construction phases, architects work closely with other professionals to ensure the overall project is executed in a timely and cost-effective manner.
In the process of designing and constructing a new structure, architects are often required to incorporate the latest construction methods and technology. This includes using CADD (computer aided design and drafting) technology to produce detailed designs for a range of projects. Architects can also suggest contractors for different activities, such as landscaping.
Some architects take on a more hands-on role, while others may manage subcontractors on behalf of their clients. Either way, architects must be able to effectively communicate with their staff and clients. They must also be aware of relevant safety regulations and codes.
They introduce aspects of mathematics and architecture
Mathematics has always been a part of architectural design. From the first drawing machines to the early use of Pythagoras’ readings in building proportions, the mathematician has been a key element in the designing process. In fact, in ancient Greece, the mathematical patterns of the architecture were considered a necessary basis for the visual development of the mind. Nikos Salingaros argues that the use of these patterns in the architecture was essential for intellectual growth.
While architects are usually quick to complain about building materials, they are surprisingly reluctant to make the same complaint about mathematics. As architects, it’s important to understand how much of an impact mathematics has on the process of design. It’s often seen as an intangible element that supplements and enhances the beauty of the final product.
They may introduce (intentionally or unintentionally) aspects of environmental sustainability
Architects are a key player in environmental sustainability, both intentionally and unintentionally. As such, they must ensure that the design of their buildings, products and services addresses both the environmental and social aspects of sustainability. For instance, green material selection is one such aspect.
Materials play an essential role in society. Their use has implications for future availability of resources, as well as their regeneration capacity. In this regard, architects must make a case for using renewable and non-renewable resources in their designs. However, the use of renewable resources has some important limitations, such as their flow capacity. While a product made from renewable material may have a low environmental impact, the same product made from a non-renewable resource has an extremely high environmental cost.
The benefits of using green materials, particularly when applied in the context of life cycle assessment, should not be underestimated. These benefits include the ability to reduce the environmental footprint of a product while also ensuring that the product is durable and recyclable. This is especially true for furniture and other consumer goods.
