5 Unique Characteristics of Architects
Architect Characteristics
Broad Knowledge
Love of Nature
Hard Workers
Architects do more than design. They dream, and they do. If you are considering a career in architecture, be prepared to do more than simply design buildings. You'll need to be able to juggle angles, lines and numbers and be able to dream up creative possibilities that your clients simply cannot fathom. The following are five unique characteristics of architects that might surprise you.
1. They have killer negotiation skills.
Believe it or not, but architects must be sociable. They must be able to clearly communicate with their clients as well as the interior designers, engineers and staff with whom they work. Also, architects must share their visions and ideas for a particular design and, in some cases, convince others of their goals. With excellent negotiation and communication skills, you will be able show your goal clearly enough so that others will understand.
2. They love to learn.
In order to keep working as an architect, you must be able to commit to continuing your education. You will need become licensed in the state in which you want to work, and this process usually involves education, experience and an examination. Make sure to select a university that provides a degree accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board. Once you earn the degree, you will be eligible to sit for the licensing examination. However, your education does not end there, and architects must continue to stay up-to-date on new accreditations and licenses as they come out.
3. They know things.
The field of architecture isn't limited to just drawing and design. Architects have knowledge of an array of topics that might not necessarily be related to the profession such as politics and public speaking. In addition, a knowledge of construction, sustainable building, real estate, marketing and business are also important, and architects must be able to apply what they know to his or her work on a daily basis.
4. They love nature.
Yes, architecture revolves around science and mathematics, but architects also often have a deep respect and profound love of nature. Frank Lloyd Wright believed that architects' designs should never disrupt Mother Nature but should instead follow her curves and enhance the beauty of the great outdoors. In other words, architects understand that the building is of the hill rather than on it.
5. They work hard.
Architecture involves more than just sitting at a desk designing blueprints from 9 to 5. Architects must be willing to completely dedicate themselves to the job at hand, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Architects could work after-hours at the job site, stay late in the office or work from home into the week hours of the night to hammer out the details, if necessary. It is the architect's responsibility to ensure that each project is sturdy and safe, and safety can't be accomplished with little effort.