Architecture

The exciting as well as challenging process of designing new buildings, renovating the existing structures, and contributing towards the preservation and refurbishment of old buildings, keeping in mind the aspects like; firmness, usefulness, and appearance, are the various aspects of architecture and the one who carries out these responsibilities is an Architect. An Architect receives detailed guidelines and instructions from the clients or employers related to the category, purpose, facility, and approximate budget assigned for the construction of the buildings like; office complexes, manufacturing units, food outlets, independent houses, or residential complexes. These professionals use Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software to draw the maps or layouts designs and ensure practicality to bring maximum results and client contentment. 

An Architect is responsible for inspecting the site of the proposed building and obtaining an accurate site plan. Architect prepares a sketch scheme of the floor plans, the elevations, and the perspective drawings before the final approval is acquired. Also, architectural professionals prepare contract documents including; detailed drawings and specifications and estimates of budget, obtain essential documents related to town planning and related aspects from the local authorities. As the Building Contractor gets the contract for construction of the building, the Architect pays periodic visits to the building site, inspects and supervises the work in progress, and issue instructions to the contractor. They keep a track of developments of new methods and materials, analyze their limitations and potentialities. Architects working in private sector usually have clients in the form of individuals, firms or local bodies and they take up projects of houses, apartments, schools, offices and so on. Architectural professionals usually specialize in building types depending upon the material used like; steel, bricks, or tiles. They also ensure that the ecological balance of the project is achieved.

Route to Architecture Profession

• 10 + 2 in Science Stream with Math
• Bachelor of Architecture for 5 years  
• Master of Architecture for 2 years / Master of Urban and Regional Planning for 2 years

Significant Statistics

• Eligibility performance criteria of at least 50% aggregate in 10 +2 in major colleges
• Minimum 60% score required to study a degree in Architecture in most of the colleges
• 60% in Bachelor's to be eligible to study Master's and 60% in Master's degree to study PhD. programs
• Age Limit is fixed for admission in some colleges and universities
• To secure admissions into IITs, NITs and SPAs, 10 + 2 with Physics/Chemistry/Mathematics is a must.
   

Pros

• Rewarding and fulfilling career for aspirants looking for creativity in job
• Allows a professional to feel good about ensuring safe, practical and comfortable surroundings to dwellers
• A lot of respect and prestige is attached to the profession
• Work Environment for Architects is such that offers to learn new things everyday 

Cons

• Long lasting and prolonged learning and training
• To fulfill the project deadlines, working overtime even during odd hours may be required
• As real estate industry is unpredictable so are the prospects for Architects
• Average remunerations in comparison to other professions with similar trainings