How to become the best architect you can be

A career in architecture and design is a rewarding and lucrative profession. It brings with it a high level of responsibility and the opportunity to design homes, commercial buildings and even themed entertainment projects in locations around the world. Those interested in a career as an architect or a degree in architecture have a variety of options.

Interested in learning more about architecture and finding out about architectural career goals? In this guide, you will learn more about the most important factors for an architect's career development, the outlook for future architects and the salaries for different architectural professions. Aspiring architects should read this article to find out if the architectural career is right for them.

Career prospects for architects: Why is architecture a good profession?

Architecture is a good profession because it can lead to a lucrative position, and with career advancement, architects can earn even more. For example, according to ZipRecruiter, senior architects in the 90th percentile earn $160,000 per year in the US. In the DACH region, this profession is also well paid.

Architecture is also a good profession because architects are generally respected in society. Contemporary architects play a crucial role in our modern society because they design the buildings we live in. It is a good career choice for people who aspire to a position of high social status.

One drawback is that architects don't have the best work-life balance. Architecture students work long hours to earn their bachelor's degree, and the same is true for many professional architects. This profession is demanding and can be stressful, and it's not for everyone.

Be aware that if you want to become an architect, your career development depends on you being truly committed to your work. This profession can be demanding, but also rewarding. If you have excellent problem-solving skills, interpersonal skills and attention to detail, architecture is your field.

Salary and career prospects for architects

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for architects is $80,180. In terms of job growth, the BLS projects a three percent increase in the number of architect positions between 2020 and 2030. While this is less than the average growth for all occupations, BLS statistics also show that an average of 9,400 new architect positions are expected to be created each year.

What does a typical career path for an architect look like?

Level 1: Residential building designer

Many architecture graduates start their careers as interior designers. A residential designer is someone who designs and plans the interior of residential buildings and develops ideas for remodeling these spaces to meet the needs of their clients. A person in this position is commonly referred to as an interior designer.

Residential designers are responsible for determining what materials are needed and how much money is available for a residential project. They are very creative, have excellent communication skills, can make sketches and have an eye for detail. According to PayScale, the typical salary for residential designers is between $25,000 and $75,000.

Level 2: Architectural designer

An architectural designer is someone who designs building and landscape patterns. They work directly under the supervision of licensed architects and communicate with clients to get design ideas and create budgets for their building projects.

Architectural designers have acquired skills in Autodesk Revit and Autodesk AutoCAD. In terms of expertise, an architectural designer is one step behind an architect. According to PayScale, architectural designers can earn between $44,000 and $73,000 annually.

Level 3: Architect

When an architectural designer receives their ARE license, they become a licensed architect. Architects use their construction expertise and advanced drafting skills to design safe, sustainable and visually appealing structures.

Architects have technical skills in Autodesk Revit, design and project management. They can work on residential projects like single-family homes as well as commercial projects like office buildings, shopping centers and even churches. According to PayScale, architects can earn between $51,000 and $101,000 annually.

Level 4: Architectural project manager

Architectural project managers oversee all parts of the design and construction process of a building project. They are responsible for creating and approving building plans and ensuring that a project complies with environmental and zoning regulations.

Architectural project managers have skills in project management, dealing with clients and project coordination. According to PayScale, architectural project managers can earn between $53,000 and $114,000 annually.

Level 5: Building director

The construction director is a management position responsible for evaluating the project's staffing needs and ensuring that construction goals are met. Construction directors also review contracts and budgets and agree schedules with subcontractors.

Construction directors have highly developed skills in project management, budget management and personnel management. According to PayScale, construction directors can earn an annual salary between $78,000 and $162,000.

Architect career path: important milestones

It is important to develop the right skills that will enable you to progress in your architectural career. There are some important milestones that every architect needs to achieve in order to be successful.

Build your first project

One of the best things that can happen to young architects is to have their first project accepted. It is a great pleasure to see your concept for a building or construction project come to fruition. This will also boost your self-confidence that you have done a good job.

Work in a good architectural office

There are many architecture firms. If you work in one of the best architectural firms, you can become a better architect. You can acquire better communication skills and analytical skills, and with time and hard work, you can attain a senior position in the firm.

Win your first major customer

Winning your first customer is like bringing your first project to life. If you succeed in winning your first big client, you can do it again. Once you have won a big client, your company will be able to realize more long-term construction projects.

Open your own architectural office

If you are thinking of opening your own architectural practice, it is important that you have experience in both the technical aspects of architecture and the business aspects. Opening your own office is a big milestone because you will be your own boss and run your own business.

Make your company profitable

Once you have gained practical experience of running an architecture firm, it is important to make your business profitable. Create a step-by-step plan and try to achieve your business goals within a set time frame.

Plan your career path as an architect

To be successful in any profession, you need to have a plan for how you are going to achieve that success. The same is true in the field of architecture. Developing your skills and setting professional goals are just some of the things you need to consider when planning your career. Let's take a look at what else can help you plan your architectural career.

Define your professional goals

One of the best ways to succeed in architecture is to set professional goals. Keep the big picture in mind and set your career goals as an architect based on your interests. For example, if you aspire to a senior position in the field of architecture, you should set goals to achieve this. If you want to become a design director, set milestones and micro-goals that will help you achieve that goal.

Learning higher qualifications

Learning key skills can help you advance your career in architecture. If you want to become a successful architect and excel in an architectural practice, you need to develop key skills at a higher level. For example, technical managers or construction managers have good business management skills.

As an architect, you may be familiar with the design process or have in-depth knowledge of the construction processes involved in a building project. However, to progress to a more senior position, you will need to have excellent management and communication skills. Invest some time to develop these.

Find a mentor

It's always a good idea to find someone you can learn from. If you work in a company, it's a good idea to find a mentor who will take you under their wing and guide you. In many cases, mentors are experienced architects who already have experience in the field of architecture. They play an important role as you can gain relevant technical knowledge and skills from them.

Expand your office

Grow in your office by taking on new projects and challenges. The more practice you have, the more experience you have. The more practical experience you have, the more you can earn. Almost every job ad for most professions will ask for relevant experience and certain educational requirements. Look for projects and certifications that will help you grow.

Decide where you want to settle down

Wenn Sie sich um Ihre Finanzen kümmern, ist es wichtig, einen geeigneten Ort zu wählen, der ein gutes Gehalt für Architekten bietet. Einige Staaten und Städte bieten bessere Gehälter, andere nicht. Es ist also eine gute Idee, sich zu informieren und eine Stadt zu wählen, die Ihren Bedürfnissen und Ihrem Lebensstil entspricht.