An architect’s job seems to be one of those glamorous line of work that hardly gives reason to get stressed out. Now why would a job that gives lots of opportunities for earning, just by doing something one has a great passion for, be stressful? Yet designing houses and buildings, and may be, even skyscrapers, is not all that it takes to make a great paying profession out of an architectural career or business.
Architects face challenges, particularly those who are still in that stage of trying to build a name for themselves or for their business. Challenges faced by architects depend on their circumstances; and for this post, we will consider only the basics
Newbie or a Fresh Grad
A fresh grad’s first concern is getting hired for an internship at the least. It is the first difficult task to hurdle since most architectural firms usually hire those with bankable experience. Not unless an applicant for an entry position has a good list of bankable traits, academic qualifications, an Architect Registration Examination (ARE) license, additional continuing courses on and trainings completed, design competitions won, job-related volunteer work, an impressive portfolio of sketches and drawings and other similar records or documents that will give an aspiring architect fresh out of college, an edge over other applicants.
StartUp Architectural Business
Startup architectural businesses have to battle with a common misconception among building owners or property developers that hiring an architectural firm only spells additional costs. Nowadays, most architectural firms take proactive steps by looking for large-scale business projects to which they can take their firm’s building or housing design ideas.
Again, the matter of creating an edge over bidding competitors is of utmost importance. Previous projects to support stakeholder-compliant designs, sustainable architectural ideas, ability to create practical and attractive designs that require reasonable building costs, are only some of the elements that can increase chances of winning a lucrative contract. All these and some can add value to a design proposal.
Established Architectural Businesses
Architectural businesses that have made a name for themselves still face challenges since they have to keep up with the continuing evolution of the profession. They already have and edge over others but must make sure they stay ahead of the competitive world of architecture. Fresh revolutionary ideas coming from startup companies are not to be disregarded, since new technologies are now available to make them more competitive. The matter of winning clients is essential, because financial stability and sustainability is one way of keeping their pool of talented architects under their wing.
Managing a pool of professionals is also a considerable challenge, as the firm relies not only with their ability to create impressive building designs that can add value to their client’s vision. A firm must be able to support their talents with software that will allow them to yield excellent work at a quicker pace, as well as help gather information about new materials, fresh sources, and trending preferences when it comes to building and housing occupancy.
Rest and Recreation: A General Issue for Every Busy Architect
In whatever capacity or condition architects work in, the job requires long hours of conceptualizing, sketching, and designing; whilst putting a lot of considerations in mind such as building regulations, stakeholder requirements, as well as engineering value to their concept. At the same time, an ongoing project also requires on-site visits and client meetings, which could really make a day’s work even more gruelling.
Actually, finding time for rest and recreation is one of the challenges faced by most architects. The need to alleviate stressful work conditions when R&R is not yet affordable and available. Some employers give their architects time off after successfully completing a project so they can re-energize. In the meantime, day to day office support may come in the form of ergonomic chairs; or something as simple as a foot hammock that allows release of pressure on the lower back leading to proper blood circulation.