Architecture and Construction Industry - Nature of Work

This Chapter is for those who find interest in the physics of buildings, are concerned with habitats, are conscious of the environment and most importantly visualise creations of concrete for changing the skyline for generations to come. While the Roman, Victorian, Moslem and Indian temple architecture have overawed people in all ages , the contemporary structures should inspire aspirants who are deciding to step into the world of architecture and desire to leave a powerful imprint on lives of people for centuries.

Architecture is that specific area of study and work which deals with design, plan of buildings and structures. Architects belong to a profession where dreams and sweat are blended with material to erect milestones of human civilization and prosperity. In our country there is an enormous demand for trained architects who can cope with the challenges and requirements of the rapidly developing society. It is quite obvious that in fast changing societies the demand of rapid change often conflicts with traditional values. The training of an Architect provides meaningful resolutions to such conflicts, through processes of learning and doing. The work of Architect is to develop and improve the quality of design and construction which are simultaneously environmentally appropriate.

Architects training and work make it a distinctive and a very creative field. Architects spend years learning how to translate their clients’s ideas into a really workable solution. They are trained basically to organize space and with space at a premium now-a-days the skills of an expert architect are usually worth every rupee of his fees. Architects know all the technical requirements of a building and assume responsibility for the plumbing, electrical, air conditioning and complex engineering details of a home. They are trained to understand the demands made on a building structure by climate and location. They also know their way around the rigmarole of our building laws and regulations.

In designing homes people often stress decoratives over functional design. Clients approach architects with some idea of what they want their home to look like, but with little knowledge of whether their idea will work. A good architect strikes a healthy balance between aesthetics and functionality.

Nature of Work

The design of a building involves far more than its appearance. Buildings must be functional, safe, and economical and must suit the needs of the people who use them. Architects take all these things into consideration when they design buildings. They provide a wide variety of professional services to individuals and organizations planning a building project and may be involved in all phases of development, from the initial discussion of general ideas with the client through construction. Their duties demand a variety of skills - design, engineering, managerial and supervisory.

Creative designing

Some architects concentrate on design work. This largely depends on the type of organization or firm an architect is working for and the type of contracts he undertakes. Design involves both artistic and scientific skills, i.e., producing something which is also technically feasible.

Architects receive a set of instructions from their clients indicating the type of building required and the estimated budget available. The contract could be for a building which is residential, commercial or industrial; the brief may be for an entire housing or industrial estate. Each building may need to be designed from the very beginning or alternatively, existing structures may need conversion, e.g., houses could be altered into flats.

Once the ideas have been confirmed the architect sketches and makes plans which are detailed and show sizes, specifications and estimates of the cost of building materials. Sometimes Architects build models for a more graphic presentation of a project. The interior layout of buildings is also designed by the architect. The work may be done by an architect alone, in a team, or with the aid of architectural technicians.

Managerial and administrative responsibilities

Once the plans are finalised and accepted by the client it may be the responsibility of the architect to obtain building permission from the local authority, prepare and negotiate contracts with building contractors, civil and structural engineers and surveyors, and give all the drawings and estimates.

The architect may be the overall incharge of the contract. This involves regular visits to the site, checking the progress and quality of work, site and materials security, issuing instructions to the contractor agent; and certifying payments to contractors. A lot of time is spent discussing problems with the site manager and civil or structural engineers. This responsibility continues until the construction is complete and ready for the client’s use. Sometimes the architect may not be the overall in charge of the project but may act as part of a team with other construction professionals.

Variety, the essence of an architects work.

Architects design a wide variety of buildings, such as office and apartment buildings, schools, churches, factories, hospitals, houses and airport terminals. They also design building complexes such as shopping centres, college campuses, industrial organizations, and entire communities. In addition to designing buildings, architects also advise on the selection of building sites, and do long-range planning for land development. Architects often work with engineers, urban planners, interior designers, landscape architects, and others.

Career progression of architects

Architecture graduates during their final year in graduation have to undergo practical apprenticeship with an Architectural firm. During this training the work they do is related to design and working out on drawings, i.e., they practice and learn the practical aspects of architectural designing. After graduation most budding architects join architectural agencies or firms and manage small assignments, e.g., they may do the drawing plan of some part of a large assignment.

They learn under senior architects the technicalities involved in design when it has to be made under given specifications. After a few years of brushing up basic skills the young architect learns to handle small projects, can make architectural plans and can use his knowledge and judgment in presenting initial proposals.

Architectural training helps the architect to develop gradually an ability to work independently. He needs to learn meticulous planning so that he can apply architectural techniques and procedures to practice. Such independent judgment an architect normally acquires after a few years of work. He can select appropriate materials and experiment with methods of building and construction. Experienced and senior professionals in Architecture work on large assignments and generally have a team of junior architects, architectural assistants etc. They work as consulting managers, directing, inspecting and dealing with major technical issues, costing, legal decisions, etc. It takes 10 years and above to reach their positions. The prospective architect must know that creativity, total involvement in the assignment, imagination and sensitive perception along with skills of communication and management together go to make a successful architect.

Work Environment

Architects generally work in a comfortable environment. Most of their time is spent in offices advising clients, preparing reports and drawings, and working with other architects and engineers. However, they also often work at construction sites reviewing the progress of projects. It may be necessary to spend periods away from home and even live on-site if the location is in a remote area. Large firms also employ architects on overseas contracts for
varying lengths of time.

Personal Characteristics

Keen intelligence and many of the aptitudes and interests found in businessman, creative artists and scientists should be present in an aspirant for this field. They should be aware of and should appreciate the social and environmental factors that affect the use of the buildings they design.
Imagination and observation are assets for the architect which add dynamism to his professional skills. Self-discipline and authority are necessary in order to put across ideas, make decisions and influence people.

Architects deal with all types of people from a variety of backgrounds. They should be able to conduct themselves executive like during business transactions. Mathematical ability is required for working out design problems and building economics and costs. The work often involves dealing with legal documents or procedures, so architects must be able to understand complicated legal language related to the profession. On the site, workers need physical stamina and supervisory skills. Responsibility and accountability are also expected.

Special aptitudes

Ability to sketch -

Though not of utmost importance, it is always beneficial for architects to sketch a free hand plan while explaining to the client on seeing the site and having visualised the structure with every intricate detail. Basically after formulating the plan, the architect has to sell it to clients.

Flexibility and patience -

Leadership and ability to work with others is very important. Clients may reject or want some minor changes even when the final design has been approved. Flexibility and patience are required. Working in architectural organisations during summer vacation may be very beneficial.

Hardwork and perseverance -

Young architects may have to burn the midnight oil; but hardwork, determination and perseverance are the key words along with organisational abilities, communication skills, technical competence, keen sense of observation, appreciation of colours, proportions and building materials. Of course the most important quality still remains : making client’s visualise your vision through sketches and drawings.

Creative and aesthetic -

Architects are hard working determined, idealistic, emotional, creative, imaginative, original, practical, analytical, business like and methodical. They rate aesthetic qualities and beauty very highly and their dream is availability of a free environment where they can watch their dream developing into reality.

Employment Avenues

Architects work with Architectural firms, in enterpreneurial ventures and with Government. The present investment in the construction sector in India is 60,000 crores in both public and private sectors, which means that the country needs about 12,000 architects every year. With the best of efforts this figure could become 5000 in a few years. Here are some details of government bodies involved in construction.

Government organisations

There are various governmental and autonomous organisations associated with the construction industry which offer jobs to persons trained in construction management and Architecture. The work of some of them have been discussed in the following paragraphs:

Architects in urban development - Urban Development is the responsibility of the State. The Central Government performs an advisory and coordinating role besides providing technical and financial assistance. The Ministry of Urban Development is responsible for construction and maintenance of the Central government buildings, residential accommodation for Central government employees, and for the management of Central Government land and property.

Ministry formulates the policies with respect to housing, urban development and urban water supply etc. The Ministry has four attached and four subordinate offices, three public sector undertakings and four statutory or autonomous bodies under its administrative control.

Central Public Works Department -

Central Public Works Department is responsible for a wide range of works including selection of site, planning, designing, execution and monitoring, quality control and maintenance etc. It handles a wide range of projects such as housing and commercial complexes, educational institutions, sports complexes, hospitals, factories, hostels, airports, roads, bridges etc. It has developed considerable expertise in the fields of Civil, Electrical, Mechanical and Air-conditioning Engineering, Architecture, Horticulture and Landscaping etc.

CPWD employs qualified engineers and architects. It has a Central Design Organization to undertake complex structural design work and also to provide consultancy services. CPWD has units all over India to take up construction works even in remote parts of the country. The department also undertakes assignments abroad for Indian aided projects, Hence, the CPWD is the principal agency of the Government of India for construction and maintenance of all Central Government projects.

National Building Organization -

The National Building Organization is under the administrative control of Ministry of Urban Development to promote research in building and housing. It integrates all incoming technological findings in the field of the low cost housing technology and their application in the field towards low cost construction and improved building quality in India. It is based at New Delhi.

Town and Country Planning Organization -

The Town and Country Planning Organization is the apex technical advisory body on matters relating to Urban and regional planning strategies, research, monitoring and evaluation of Central Government Schemes. It is based at New Delhi.

Institute of Town Planners, (4-A, Ring Road, I.P. Estate, New Delhi-110 002) conducts Associateship Examination. Application in February.

Eligibility - B.Arch, BE/B.Tech (Civil), B. Planning or equivalent or M.Sc./MA in

Geography/Sociology/Economics or Post Diploma in Town Planning.

Minimum 55% marks in the qualifying examination. Candidates should be engaged in town planning work.

Housing and Urban Development Corporation -

HUDCO is an apex housing body in the Public Sector with the objectives of providing long term finance for construction of houses, setting up of new or satellite towns, financing or undertaking the setting up of building material industries etc. HUDCO has developed low cost building technologies and introduced use of waste material for construction purposes. It is based at New Delhi.

National Building Construction Corporation Ltd. -

The National Building Construction Corporation Ltd., with its office in New Delhi, is engaged in the execution of a wide variety of civil construction contracts, e.g., roads, bridges, flyovers, industrial structures, water treatment plants, T.V. Towers, housing, hospitals, hotel and other commercial complexes etc. in India and abroad. The Corporation also undertakes jobs on turn key basis and provide consultancy services too.

Hindustan Prefeb Limited -

The company, based at New Delhi, looks after the manufacturing of pre-stressed cement concrete poles, water storage tanks as well as site construction works.

City Development Authorities -

The DDA was set up in 1957 for planned development of the Union Territory of Delhi. Similarly, at the state level and District level several agencies and societies are involved in various construction activities. Haryana Development Authority, Ghaziabad Development Authority, Meerut Development Authority etc. are working on the lines of DDA to develop their respective areas.

National Institute of Urban Affairs -

The National Institute of Urban Affairs, New Delhi, is an autonomous organisation for conducting research in urban development and administration. It has been responsible for collecting, processing and disseminating information in this regard. The Institute regularly interacts with national and international agencies.

Besides these organizations, various other institutes and agencies are responsible for construction work as well as manufacturing the raw material needed for construction need architects. At state level Public Works Departments are functioning on the lines of CPWD. State Housing Boards, Municipal Corporations, Cooperative Societies, Private Builders are functioning in this area at State and District level.

A number of research institutes such as Central Building Research Institute, Central Road Research Institute are involved in research and development in the field. Researches are conducted to invent new methods and techniques of construction so that the cost of construction may be minimised. Researches are also conducted to invent new equipments and good quality construction material.

Architecture - Study and Training

B.Arch is a 5 year course after +2. A student who has studied Physics, Mathematics and Chemistry can apply for admission to a college of Architecture, Engineering Drawing is a useful subject for prospective architects. Most architecture departments/schools select students through a written test. The post graduate course is generally for 18 months to 2 years.

Entrance Test for B. Arch. - An All India Engineering Entrance Examination conducted since 2002 selects student for Architecture courses in some institutes. For details refer to page 154 of this book.

The Indian Institute of Technology, selects candidates through Joint Entrance Examination (JEE). Leading architectural institutions in the country are at New Delhi and Ahmedabad. A sample test paper is given in the Annexure to this chapter.

Subjects taught at a college of architecture

The teaching schedule at any architecture college includes - Design, Engineering and Technology, Humanities and Arts and Crafts. Design courses aim at developing basic skills of drawing expression and an understanding of scale and measurement related to basic human activities.

Detailed studies on basic materials and construction techniques form part of this course. Design exercises are framed to inquire in to the nature of form and its relevant purpose and the potentials of its expression. Practical inputs into developing design solutions keeping in mind the basic parameters of the cultural and environmental context are given.

A student of architecture goes through the process where he learns developing designs into working drawings. Emphasis is on the overall articulation of design work from the programme stage upto details, and preparation of drawings for execution of the project.

Courses in structures are organized through laboratory studies and model making. Subjects like drawing, sculpture, ceramics, photography etc. are taught along with history of art and architecture, climatology, surveying and levelling, theory of structures and structural design, art (drawing and painting), materials and methods of construction, history of art and architecture.

Estimating and costing are important subjects studied in the three years. In the fourth year the major thrust is on the practical facets like methods of construction, application of the theory of structures, the do’s and don’ts of professional practice, concrete design projects followed by the field training for 24 weeks which ends finally in the last year in a dissertation and complete design project called ‘thesis’. The B. Arch degree prepares the theoretical foundations and gives some practical insight on which a student later develops proficiency and functional accuracy.

Preparing to become an architect

Do you have the potentialities to become an Architect or can you cultivate some of the essential abilities? This question confronts students, parents and teachers. Some essential characteristics which will make you succeed through the entrance test and the profession are -

Good academic skill -

Students who have keen interest in Physics and Maths and can understand basic concepts with ease are more suitable for the study of theoretical aspects of Architecture. Engineering drawing or mechanical drawing is useful and students good at this subject can go through the aptitude test with comparative ease.

Analytical and reasoning ability -

Completing simple sequential items needs analytical and interpretative reasoning. If you have good logical reasoning and can see relationships as in item (2) 1 of Part I of the test paper of SPA, Delhi, given in annexure, you probably will do well in an Architecture entrance test.

Perception and observation - Do you recall the ceiling of the best cinema hall in your city? What have you noticed regarding the variety of flooring materials used these days? Do you remember details when you recall the structure of buildings.

General awareness -

Any one entering the marketing field is generally aware of leaders in the field. You wish to become an Architect - how much do you know of famous architects and their work.

Awareness about political, religious, historical events and a keen desire to keep yourself abreast with the physical, chemical and mathematical concepts are perhaps useful for the potential Architect.

Architectural Assistantship

Indian Institute of Architects offers Associateship to diploma holders in Architecture. The 4 year course( 4 semesters) can be done through correspondence. There is an examination at the end of semester 2 and 3. A thesis has to be submitted and viva taken to get the associateship. The Associateship Membership is considered equivalent to a B.Arch in India as well as abroad. Diploma holders must have a year of experience before they can enrol for the course.

The membership course can be pursued by Interior Designers, Assistant Architects and Architectural Draughtsmen. Various polytechnics offer three-year diploma in Architectural Assistant. The course costs about Rs. 10,000 and involves a thesis and dissertation in the final year.

Address for contact - Indian Institute of Architects, Prospect Chambers, Annexe, Dr. DN Road, Fort, Mumbai - 400001. The northern India Chapter is at 8-B Shanker Market, New Delhi -110003.

Specialized branches

Architects sometimes specialize in one type of work.- for example, hospitals, schools, or housing. Others specialize in construction management or the management of their firm and do little design work.

Few architects go in for specialization. They may choose to specialize in India or abroad (Refer to book titled ‘Study Abroad’ for study of Architecture in USA, UK, Australia). The choice of subjects ranges from Urban designing to Regional planning, Building engineering and management, Landscape Architecture to Architecture concerning traffic and transport planning. Some areas of specialisation have been described in the following sections.

While engineers at the site come from civil and electrical branches their subordinate staff conducting supervisory tasks are diploma holders in civil or electrical engineering. Construction managers are graduates/post-graduates from a variety of disciplines and hold a qualification in construction management.

Architecture - Courses and Institutions

Courses and Institutions

Construction management

Construction Management and Project Management have became a challenging option for architecture graduates. Centre for Environmental Planning and Technology (CEPT), Kasturbhai Lalbhai Campus, Ahmedabad 380009 offers a post graduate programme in Construction and Project Management. Architecture and Civil Engineering graduates with experience are given preference.

Other Courses are :

Indian Institute of Technology, IIT, Chennai

Course - Masters in Building Tech & Construction Management. Eligibility - GATE Score

Indian Institute of Technology IIT, Delhi

Course - Masters in Building Science & Construction Management (in Collaboratian with Larsen & Toubro) Eligibility – Above 97 per centile for appearing in the interview.

School of Planning & Architecture, Delhi

Course - Master of Building Engineering & Management. Eligibility – Bachelors degree in civil, building, architectural engineering, architectural building science and GATE/NET scores.

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) offers a B Tech. programme in Project Management, Quantity, Surveying & Contracting.

Realising the need for formal training in the construction sector, the construction Industry Development Council (CIDC), set up by the Planning Commission has entered into a partnership with IGNOU, to conduct various open learning programmes for construction workers and artisans.

These programmes (in Hindi plus 5 regional language), have been structured to impart training through audio visual and written material while the worker is working on the site. Presently, two certificate course are offered : Master/Trainer Craftsman for unskilled and semi-skilled workers.

No prior qualifications are required. In Delhi, the training is offered through the National Buildings Construction Corporation Ltd.

National Institute of Construction Management and Research, Hyderabad, Gurgaon and Pune.

Course - Post Graduate Diploma in Construction Management, an 18 months course of Real Estate Development & Management (12 months) Eligibility – BE/B.Tech./MBA/MA in Social Science with a minimum of 55% marks mathematics upto 12th Std. Preference is given to those having work experience.

This is the flagship campus studies course of NICMAR started with UNDP/ILO technical assistance and Syllabus has been developed with cooperation of MIT, USA. This programme trains techno-managers for the construction industry and infrastructure sector.

NICMAR also offers courses to professionals on the job through correspondence.

-- Post graduate diploma in construction management (PDCM) (2 year)

Eligibility – Graduate engineers (any branch)/architecture/town planning/building science/quantity surveying graduates/MBA’s /M Com CA’s with two years experience.

Graduate Diplomas - Duration – 1 year (offered by correspondence and on internet)

-- Construction Project Management

-- Building Maintenance Management

-- Construction Safety Management

-- Real Estate Development and Management

-- Highway Project Management

-- Oil & Gas Pipelines Project Management

-- Construction Contracts Management.

Graduate Certificates - Duration – 6 months (offered by correspondence and on internet)

-- Construction Contracts Management

-- Construction Quality Management

-- Construction Safety Management

-- Construction Business Management

-- Site Personnel Management

-- Construction Equipment Management.

Graduate Certificates - Duration – 6 months (Internet enabled)

-- Construction Project Management Techniques

-- Construction Contracts Management

Construction Business Management.

Eligibility –

Graduates of Engineering/Architecture/Town Planning/Building Science, MBA/MCom/CA’s with 2 years experience and diploma holders in any branch of engineering with 2 year work experience at construction sites.

Addresses for reference :

NICMAR Pune Campus, 25/1, Balewadi, NIA Post Office, Pune - 411045
email : nicmar@giaspnol.vsnl.net.in Website www.nicmar.org

NICMAR Trust Office, Walchand Centre, Tardeo Road, Mumbai - 400034
email : nicmarmb@giasbmol.vsnl.net.in

NICMAR Study Centre, 49, Vijayaranga, MRCR, 17th Class, Vijayanagar,
Bangalore 560040.

NICMAR 7, Vittal Rao Nagar, Madhapur, Hyderabad 500033 email : nicmarhb@hd2.dot.net.in

NICMAR D/2, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi email : giastiol.vsnl.net.in

NICMAR, Dubai, UAE website : www.nicmar.org

Real Estate & Valuation

Institution of Estate Managers & Appraisers (Office : 7 Red Cross Road, 4th Floor, Dalhousic, Kokkata - 1)

Course - Advanced course in Real Estate Management. Appraisal - One year, full time

Eligibility : Graduate, degree/diploma in engineering

-- Indira Gandhi National Open University, School of Engineering and Technology IGNOU Campus, Maidan Garhi, New Delhi - 110068

Courses - B Tech (Civil) 700 Seats, Construction Management (BTCM), ME

-- Madhav Institute of Technology & Sc., Gwalior - 474005, Madhya Pradesh

Course - ME

-- Samrat Ashok Technological Institute (Engineering College), Vidisha - 464001

Course - BE (PT), Construction Technology, 60 & Management

-- Shah & Anchor Kutchhi Engineering College, (Women) Tukaram Patil Marg, Chembur, Mumbai - 400088, Maharashtra

Course - BE 4 years, 30 Seats, (Construction)

-- Konkan Education Society’s, Narayan Nagu Patil Engineering, College Mumbai - Goa Road, Tal Pen, Dist Raigad - 402107, Maharashtra

Course - BE 4 years, 40 Seats

-- BMS College of Engineering, PB. No. 1908, Bull Temple Road, Bangalore

Course - ME (1½)

Training of surveyors

The Institute of Surveyors, 15/7 Institutional Area, New Mehrauli Road, New Delhi-110016 turns out qualified surveyors. Entry to the training program is flexible.

There are 3 examinations - first, intermediate and final. After 10+2 (PCM) students can enter at the first level examination, diploma holders in civil engineering can enrol at the intermediate level and B.Arch/BE in Civil engineering entitles the candidates to enrol for the final exam. There is mandatory practical training for each stage.

Courses in architecture, landscape architecture, naval architecture

There are over 100 institutions which impart training in Architecture. The well known institutions however, are School of Planning and Architecture, New Delhi, Centre of Environment and Planning Technology, Ahmedabad and JJ School of Architecture. (Refer to table for details).

Opinions prevalent about various schools are as follows:

-- Mumbai produces sleek interiors’ men and women

-- IIT’s and Roorkee produces technically competent students

-- Delhi provides an opportunity for practical experience and the students are more exposed to architectural activity in the city.

-- Ahmedabad school emphasises on design.

Graduate and Post Graduate courses -

Graduate Courses (B.Arch) are after 10+2 (duration 5 years).

Post Graduate courses are after B.Arch (duration 1½ years - 3 semesters). Architecture courses available in independent architecture colleges and Engineering colleges in the States of India offering Architecture are listed in the following pages.

Details of architecture courses in IIT and Regional Engineering colleges are given under these heads (refer charts).

Admission procedure for all the architecture colleges has been mentioned in the section giving entry procedures to Engineering Colleges. Charts also cover rules and regulations under the heading Procedure for admission.

Graduate/Postgraduate courses in colleges of architecture

Architecture - A Profession for the Future

"I'm always fascinated by what is happening around me"

So why would a career in architecture attract you?

Well, if you are the kind of person who is curious about your surroundings, then you might just be interested in learning how to improve them. As an architect you would have the power and the responsibility to shape the environments in which people spend their daily lives. This makes architecture one of the most influential professions in today's society.

We are living in a rapidly changing world, and so we need people with the imagination to create the buildings and cities our society needs to keep pace with progress. If you are some one who is excited by change, then you could grasp the opportunity to build the future the way you want it.

What sort of person would you need to be to become an Architect?

Architecture is much too important to leave to somebody else for it reflects the society that builds it, but it also affects the way that society develops. This means we need architects who can respond to the different needs and values of all sections of the community. However, in the past most architects were drawn from a fairly narrow sector of society. In the future it is essential we ensure that architecture represents every social and cultural background.

If you are someone with a sense of purpose, who cares about people and about the environment, then you already have the most basic qualities an architect needs. And in turn architecture has a lot to offer anyone who wishes to make a positive mark on the world.

After all, if you are not willing to put your own ideas forward, how can you be sure things will turn out the way you would like them to?

So who wants to do the same job every day of their lives?

Choosing a career in architecture certainly doesn't mean limiting your choices. The skills that architects posses are relevant to all aspects of the built environment, from constructing new buildings to conserving old ones. The range of work they are required to undertake is so varied that each architect could give you a completely different description of what they do. The one thing that is constant in architectural work is that is it concerned with people.

Want to learn transferable skills for your future?

There is no denying that architecture is a demanding profession. It deals with many of the important issues in today's society, for instance exploring new ways of living, investigating new technologies and material and ensuring that what we build is environmentally sustainable. But most of all it involves designing that people are happy to look at and to use.

This means that an architect must learn a whole range of different skills, even crossing the traditional boundaries between art and science. But this also means an architectural education is one of the broadest on offer, equipping people with talents to enter a broad range of different careers

Not only are there many different forms of architectural practice, ranging from small private firms to large public or corporate offices, but also an architectural degree can be the platform for a wide range of related careers. Some architecture graduates gain further qualifications in such specialist fields as planning, landscape or conservation, while others move onto working television, theatre or to become teachers or writers

"I started as a product designer, became an architect, and then returned to product design. I came to realise that the architect's training is wonderfully valuable even or especially for a product designer. The architect is trained not to worry is a job is small or large nor what material it is made from or how complex it is."
Alan Tyle, product designer, Hertfordshire.

" A significant percentage of my fellow students made their future elsewhere than in design of buildings. They were not the weakest students but all seemed to be questioning and intending to leave their chosen fields differently from the way they found them. I have subsequently met surveyors, solicitors, barristers and journalists who have all drawn on an architectural background for their outlook".
Mattew Wells, Engineer, London

The Sun Shines on Architectural Education in Australia

Architectural education in Australia is underpinned by a very successful and internationally respected architectural profession. Indeed, over recent years Australian architects have received many major international awards. Glen Murcutt was recipient of the prestigious Alvar Aalto Medal in Finland, Harry Seidler was recipient of the Gold Medal of the Royal Institute of British Architects, and Gregory Burgess was recipient of the Robert Matthew Award from the Commonwealth Association of Architects.

Large Australian architectural practices continue to wield their influence across the world - Denton Corker Marshall has been short-listed for the Scottish parliament project in Edinburgh, and has offices in Asia and Eastern Europe; other leading practices such as Philip Cox, Mitchell Giugola and Peddle Thorp continue to win major projects; and smaller practices with Australian architects contribute to the leading edge of world architecture - such as Koenig and Eisenberg in California, Bolles-Wilson in Germany, Kerry Hill in Asia. Architecture within Australia is also vibrant and exciting and has received growing media attention particularly in Europe and North America. The upcoming 2000 Sydney Olympics will see a host of exciting new projects exercising a ‘green’ agenda for the 21^st century.

All of this derives from a rich and diverse architectural education sector that is also internationally respected. All the fifteen accredited Architecture Schools in Australia are located in Government funded Universities. These schools are accredited by the Royal Australian Institute of Architects and the Boards of Architects in each State under the co-ordination of the Architects Accreditation Council of Australia. All courses are also accredited by the Commonwealth Association of Architects and recognised by the RIBA. The Royal Australian Institute of Architects is affiliated with the world body for architecture, the UIA or International Union of Architects. So Australian architectural degrees are recognised in most countries for admission to the profession of architecture.

In all Australian Universities the principal professional degree for architects is the ‘Bachelor of Architecture’ (BArch) which is based on a five year full-time academic program. In some schools there is a two degree structure offering a first degree such as ‘Bachelor of Science Architecture’ or ‘Bachelor of Environmental Design’ after three years, followed by two years to the ‘BArch’ degree. These first degrees are not sufficient for admission to registration as an architect, but they are recognised by prospective employers for employment as an ‘Architectural Assistant’. Most Universities offer advanced standing for students arriving from overseas with prior tertiary qualifications such as Polytechnic Diplomas or preliminary architectural studies.

The Australian ‘BArch’ degree is of a comparable standard and content to the ‘MArch’ degrees now being offered in Singapore and Hong Kong. Australian architecture courses are similar to the British structure and are, in most cases, specifically focused on the subject ‘Architecture’, unlike many US courses where there are many variations and options, some derived from non-architecture based first degrees followed by a professional degree. The simple Australian structure leading to the uniform ‘Bachelor of Architecture’ is clearly understood and recognised by professional institutes and employers internationally.

The current currency exchange situation in SE Asia has seen the Australian dollar falling in value against the US dollar and British pound thus improving Australia’s international competitiveness against both these countries as an education destination. In addition to the traditional catchment of SE Asia, from where thousands of architecture students have gone to Australia over several decades, there is a growing presence in Australia of European, African and North American students who perceive Australia as an attractive and cost effective base for their tertiary study. In general, personal security is excellent across Australia, the weather is beautiful and there are splendid cities, landscapes and natural amenities.

Although uniformly accredited within Australia, the fifteen recognised courses vary widely in their individual structure and educational methodologies. It pays to inquire into the characteristics of each program and the facilities available. Some have an emphasis on scholarship and research; others are ‘avant garde’ and have a theoretical emphasis; others have a pragmatic or practical emphasis focused on the education of future practising professionals. If students are interested in immediate employment within the profession upon graduation, then this question needs to be asked in selecting the most suitable course. It is also worth inquiring if studio space is provided by the University or if this has to be rented off-campus in addition to fees. Some Universities provide a studio work space and equipment with 24 hour access. Fees for international students in Australia are of the order of A$14,000 per year. (US$8,500, UK£5,150)

The Royal Australian Institute of Architects is at and has links to the home pages of each School of Architecture in Australia under ‘Studying Architecture’.

Lindsay Johnston is Chair of the National Education Committee of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects and Associate Professor of Architecture at the University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia.

Architecture in the U.K

The built environment is one of the most visible of man’s achievements, with structures dating from prehistoric times still in existence. Today, there is an even greater demand for buildings than ever before and courses in architecture are among the most popular offered by universities in Britain.

The Challenge of the Profession

The life of the Architect can be full and satisfying, offering widely varying opportunities to both men and women. The work is both artistically creative and at the same time technically demanding, the resolution of the tension between the two bringing a sense of achievement. As in most areas of concern, there are often complications, but these are frequently outweighed by the satisfaction of providing a caring professional service which applies inspiration, design skills and technical expertise to the client’s needs.

The Architect is trained in all aspects of building, and can advise on and carry out the design of new buildings and extensions, the repair, preservation or rehabilitation of old buildings from initial feasibility studies through to the completion of the final account. Architects are skilled in analysing building problems and producing design solutions to them.

The majority of Architects work in small to medium sized practices of up to 20 people, although there are some larger offices. Others are employed by local authorities and various public sector bodies.

The training of an Architect has to be exceptionally comprehensive and includes the aesthetic, practical, technical, economic and contractual aspects of construction. In a period of increasing specialisation in many fields, the Architect is expected to have a general understanding of all aspects of building. Not surprisingly, all courses, of whatever kind, are long and involved, not by any means easy, and require sustained effort and commitment.

The Personal Characteristics Required

A candidate for Architectural education should be able to think about and analyse complex problems, and a lively and inventive mind is an asset, together with some artistic sensitivity. Resourcefulness is needed, as is the ability to achieve an unbiased solution to the problems involved. As the work often involves dealing with legal procedures, there needs to be an aptitude to cope with such matters.

On a personal level, one will have to be able to get on with all types of people, such as clients, colleagues and contractors, and a keen sense of humour is a not inconsiderable help in some circumstances.

Qualification and Registration

In the United Kingdom the title of ‘Architect’ is protected by law, and to be able to use it one has to be registered with the Architects Registration Board Qualification for registration is by examination, usually undertaken at one of the recognised Schools of Architecture, with the course being in three sections:

• 1. A full time course at a university leading to a degree after three years.
• 2. A full time Diploma course at university. (Often there is a break between these two parts, when a year’s practical experience is gained).
• 3. A further year’s practice is required before the Professional practice

Examination is taken, leading to Registration as an Architect.

Information and Courses

Courses and their details vary from year to year, and it is advisable to approach the university chosen for details of the courses offered. Entrance qualifications for each University differ and should be checked with the university concerned. The normal requirement is the equivalent of three good A levels, with preferred subjects including: Maths, other Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, etc.), Art and Economics. Other useful subjects could include: Business Studies, Geography, Languages and those demonstrating literacy skills (English, History, etc.).

Architectural Technology

The Architect is assisted in this work by the Architectural Technician or Technologist, whose qualification and experience lie in the detailed technical area of the work as opposed to the aesthetic design of the buildings.

The Technologist will carry out many tasks on behalf of the Architect, including:

• measured surveys of buildings and sites
• drawing up technical and production drawings
• computer aided drawing and design
• preparation of specifications and schedules of works, with selection of appropriate materials
• co-ordination of information and work of specialists and statutory bodies
• quality control and site inspection
• interpretation of Building Regulations and associated legislation

The Technologist must therefore have a full and detailed understanding of building science and technology and of building contracts and regulations and the law associated with building.

Qualifications

The Architectural Technologist has traditionally qualified by means of BTEC Higher National Certificate or Diploma courses and many of these are still available at Universities and Colleges all over Britain. However, in the last few years, many Universities have developed degrees in Architectural Technology and these are becoming increasingly popular. Entry to all of these courses is by A levels, with the preferred subjects being similar to those for Architecture, although Art is less important as there is less aesthetic design in the work involved. Other suitable qualifications would be lower level BTEC awards or GNVQs, or their equivalent. The individual Universities or Colleges should be contacted for their particular requirements.

Further Information

Information on Registration as an Architect in the UK may be obtained from The Registrar, The Architects Registration Board, 73 Hallam Street, London, W1N 6EE. U.K.

A list of approved Schools of Architecture may be obtained from The Education and Training Secretary, The Architects and Surveyors Institute, St. Mary House, 15 St. Mary Street, Chippenham, Wilts, SN15 3WD. U.K.