Chapter 1 Professional Architectural Careers, Office Practices, and Opportunities

Introduction Architectural drafting and design satisfies many interests Theoretical problem solving Artistic creations Creating something practical while working with your hands

Introduction (cont’d.) Architectural drafting classes can lead to various careers Drafter CAD technician Designer Interior decorator or designer Architect Engineer

Drafter Creates drawings and details for another person’s creations Responsible for proper line and lettering quality and properly laying out required drawings Requires attention to detail Drafters draw using pens and pencils CAD technicians create them using a computer

Drafter (cont’d.) Beginning drafter Job consists of correcting drawings created by others Responsibilities expand as quality improves U.S. National CAD Standards (NCS) Aimed at bringing uniformity between consulting firms to ensure quality plans

Drafter (cont’d.) Experienced drafter Makes construction design decisions (e.g., structural sizes, connection methods, drawing renderings, etc.) Becomes more complex with experience May work with city and state building departments Requires familiarity with codes and vendors’ catalogs

Drafter (cont’d.) Educational requirements Personal requirements Solid education, computer-aided drafting (CAD) skills, basic computer skills, and ability to sell yourself Personal requirements Function well in group settings Reliability Promote success among teammates

Drafter (cont’d.) Workplace ethics Employment opportunities Rules and principles that define right and wrong conduct Copyright protection Employment opportunities Range (e.g., suppliers, manufacturing companies, government agencies)

Designer States restrict title use Responsibilities Formal training and a competency test Responsibilities Based on education and experience Coordinates team of drafters May work under an architect or engineer Generally work in an office setting

Interior Decorator Decorates building interiors Specific job requirements: Meet with clients to determine project scope Review and measure spaces Prepare proposed room layouts and estimates Provide samples Arrange and oversee painting, wallpapering, and flooring Select and purchase furnishings and items

Kitchen and Bath Designer Area of specialization National Kitchen & Bath Association training program Associate Kitchen & Bath Designer Certified Kitchen Designer Certified Master Kitchen & Bathroom Designer

Interior Designer Works with structural designer to optimize and harmonize interiors Plans space features Licensing depends on state requirements National Council for Interior Design Qualification examination

Architect Licensed professional Designs commercial and residential structures Performs the tasks of many (e.g., designer, artist, project manager, and construction supervisor) Education Bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate Fine arts classes help in preparation Specialization in third year

Architect (cont’d.) Positions in architectural firms include: Technical staff Intern Architect I, II, and III Manager Associate Principal

Engineer Licensed professional Applies math and science principles to structure design and construction Electrical engineers Mechanical engineers Civil engineers

Related Fields Many related careers require an understanding of drafting principles Model maker Illustrator Specification writer Plan examiner Inspector Construction jobs

Design Basics Financial considerations The client Influences design methods Designer makes cost and size decisions Financial source can also affect design process The client House plans are often built in subdivisions Stock plans allow for personalization

Design Basics (cont’d.) Design process stages: Initial contact Preliminary design studies Room planning Initial working drawings Final design considerations

Design Basics (cont’d.) Design process stages (cont’d.): Completion of working drawings Permit procedures Job supervision