How to Be Architectural Designer - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jul 2, 2020 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

How to Become

Professional Organizations

FAQ

Links

The demand for architectural designers has grown in recent years due to the increasing complexity of modern buildings and structures. The need for well-trained professionals with a good understanding of construction technology, building codes, and design principles has resulted in more job opportunities for those with a background in architecture. This has also caused a corresponding rise in the number of educational programs offering degrees in architectural design, both in traditional colleges and online. As a result, the quality of designs produced by these professionals has improved significantly, leading to better-built structures that are both aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound.

Steps How to Become

Get a Bachelor's Degree. The first step to becoming an architectural designer is to earn a bachelor's degree in architecture, architecture design, or a related field. Most employers require at least a four-year degree in one of these areas.
Get Licensed. After completing a bachelor's degree, aspiring architectural designers must obtain a professional license. To become licensed, designers must pass the Architect Registration Exam (ARE) administered by the National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB).
Gain Experience. Once licensed, aspiring architectural designers typically gain experience by working with a licensed professional in an internship or apprenticeship. This experience is valuable and can help prepare them for their future career.
Obtain Specialized Certifications. Many employers look for architects with specialized certifications. Obtaining certifications in certain areas such as sustainability or construction management can increase job prospects and salary potential.
Consider Continuing Education. Continuing education is important for architectural designers to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in the industry. Many professional organizations offer workshops and seminars that can help keep designers current.

To become an architectural designer, individuals must possess a combination of technical, artistic, and communication skills. Becoming skilled and qualified in this field requires a formal education through an accredited degree program in architecture. These degree programs typically focus on teaching students the fundamentals of architectural design, such as principles of design, techniques for drafting plans, and theories of construction.

In addition, students gain knowledge of construction materials and techniques, computer-aided design software, and sustainable building practices. aspiring architectural designers must develop skills in communication, problem-solving, and collaboration, which can be acquired through internships and apprenticeships. Having a portfolio of completed projects is also essential for a successful career in architecture.

With all these components combined, individuals can become proficient in the field and be adequately qualified to become an architectural designer.

You may want to check Animation Designer, Game Designer, and Clothing Designer for alternative.

Job Description

Draft and design architectural plans, elevations, sections, and details
Develop materials list, specifications, and cost estimates
Prepare construction documents, coordinate with consultants, and review shop drawings
Research building codes and standards and assist in obtaining necessary permits
Participate in client meetings to discuss project requirements and progress
Create 3D renderings and other graphics to support the design team
Participate in site visits to assess existing conditions
Develop presentations to illustrate design ideas and concepts
Contribute to the development of innovative approaches to sustainable design
Monitor project progress and coordinate with project team members

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of architectural design principles and techniques
Ability to create accurate drawings and renderings
Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Proficiency in computer aided design (CAD) software
Ability to understand and interpret building codes and regulations
Knowledge of materials and construction methods
Knowledge of structural design principles
Knowledge of green building principles and sustainability standards
Knowledge of local, state and federal laws related to building design
Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
Ability to work within tight deadlines and budgets
Knowledge of building energy efficiency standards
Attention to detail and accuracy

Architectural designing is an important skill that requires many different skills. A successful architectural designer has to possess a great deal of creative thinking and problem solving abilities. They must be able to visualize the end product and be able to come up with creative solutions to any potential issues.

they need to have a great eye for detail and be able to work with a variety of materials, from wood and metal to concrete, stone, and glass. Furthermore, they need to have a good understanding of the regulations and building codes that govern their area, as well as the technical skills required to turn their design into reality. All these skills combined result in the creation of aesthetically pleasing and safe structures that are custom-made to fit their environment and the needs of their clients.

Furniture Designer, Product Designer, and Industrial Designer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What inspired you to pursue a career in architectural design?
What experience do you have working on complex design projects?
How have you incorporated sustainability into your designs?
What are your favorite materials to work with and why?
What techniques do you use to ensure accuracy in your designs?
How would you approach designing a space with limited resources?
In what ways do you stay up to date on the latest trends in the architectural design field?
How do you keep your creativity flowing when faced with design challenges?
Describe a difficult problem you faced in an architectural design project and how you overcame it.
What sets you apart from other architectural designers?

Common Tools in Industry

AutoCAD. AutoCAD is a computer-aided design (CAD) software program used for creating precise 2D and 3D drawings and models. (e. g. drawing detailed plans for buildings)
SketchUp. SketchUp is 3D modeling software used to create anything from simple houses to complex buildings. (e. g. creating 3D models for a proposed building design)
Revit. Revit is a building information modeling software used for designing and documenting building systems. (e. g. creating a detailed model of a building's interior and exterior)
Adobe Photoshop. Adobe Photoshop is an image-editing program used to create and manipulate images. (e. g. editing photos and designs to be used in architectural renderings)
Lumion. Lumion is a 3D rendering and visualization software used to create photorealistic images and videos. (e. g. creating realistic renderings of a proposed building design)
Rhino 3D. Rhino 3D is a 3D modeling software used to create complex, organic shapes and surfaces. (e. g. modeling intricate details of a buildings façade)
3ds Max. 3ds Max is a 3D modeling, animation, and rendering software used for creating realistic scenes and animations. (e. g. creating realistic animations of a proposed building design)

Professional Organizations to Know

American Institute of Architects
American Society of Landscape Architects
American Planning Association
The Architect Registration Examination
International Council of Shopping Centers
National Council of Architectural Registration Boards
American Council of Engineering Companies
American Society of Civil Engineers
Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture
National Organization of Minority Architects

We also have Web Designer, UX Designer, and Multimedia Designer jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Architectural Project. An architectural project is a plan or design for a structure or system, typically created by an architect.
Building Design. Building design is the process of creating a set of plans and specifications that describe the construction of a building.
Construction Drawings. Construction drawings are a set of technical drawings that define the materials, construction methods, and dimensions of a building or other structure.
CAD. CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software is used to create two-dimensional and three-dimensional drawings and models of structures.
Structural Engineering. Structural engineering is a branch of engineering that focuses on the design, analysis, and construction of structures such as buildings, bridges, and other large structures.
Building Regulations. Building regulations are legal requirements that govern the design, construction and use of buildings.
Site Analysis. Site analysis is the process of studying the physical, social, and economic conditions of a location to determine its suitability for a proposed development.
Landscape Architecture. Landscape architecture is the design of outdoor spaces, including gardens, parks, and other public areas.
Urban Planning. Urban planning is a discipline that focuses on the development and management of cities and other urban areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What is an Architectural Designer? A1: An Architectural Designer is a professional who designs buildings and other structures, taking into consideration factors such as function, aesthetics, and safety. Q2: What qualifications are needed for an Architectural Designer? A2: To become an Architectural Designer, one must typically have a Bachelor's degree in Architecture and have passed a licensing exam administered by the American Institute of Architects. Q3: What tools do Architectural Designers use? A3: Architectural Designers typically use computer-aided design software (CAD) to create their designs. They may also use physical models or sketches to visualize their ideas. Q4: How much do Architectural Designers earn? A4: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for Architectural Designers was $68,150 in 2019. Q5: What other duties might an Architectural Designer have? A5: In addition to designing buildings, Architectural Designers may also be responsible for overseeing the construction process, managing budgets, and collaborating with other professionals such as engineers and contractors.