A career as an architect can be challenging. It takes time, dedication, and, most importantly, love for the job. It is a career that appeals to both creatives and mathematicians. The options for architecture are numerous. The skills and expertise needed are constantly changing, so it is important to keep up with the latest developments.
But, having a passion is not enough to turn architecture into a career. Low wages, long hours of work, limited creativity and lack of recognition are just some of the problems that plague this industry. There are many reasons why a person might consider an alternative career in architecture, even though many practices actively try to improve the working environment. Some find the work too intense, while others want to be challenged in new ways. Thousands of architects move on every year for various reasons.
It is true that familiarity breeds contempt, but it can also breed self-confidence. It can be difficult to build confidence when you leave a career and pursue something else. As an architect, you develop a wide range of skills – office-based, technical and site-based. Many of the skills you learn as an architect are transferable to other professions. This list provides six different career options that utilize the skills and expertise gained as an architect.
Trade and Supply
Architects have a wealth of information on a wide range of products and suppliers. Designers will often have a favourite brand for certain specifications or suppliers they prefer due to their values or ethos. Architects are excellent sales representatives for their suppliers. It is easy to sell and inform other customers when you have a good understanding of brands and products.
Are you planning to start your architectural career in New Jersey?
New Jersey, nestled on the eastern seaboard of the United States, is a state rich in cultural diversity and economic opportunity, serving as a thriving business hub with a strong presence in industries such as pharmaceuticals, finance, telecommunications, and logistics.
New Jersey architects must give careful thought to the inclusion of errors and omissions insurance in their financial plans. The inherent risk factors they encounter, including the potential for client lawsuits, necessitate the presence of errors and omissions insurance in New Jersey. By securing this coverage, you can effectively safeguard your professional path and financial security.
Furniture and Lighting Design
You don’t have to give up all your creative work just because you quit architecture. Many architects spend a lot of time designing lighting and furniture schemes. The architects can explore materiality, techniques, details and construction. Furniture and lighting is a huge industry. Specializing in a particular aspect of architecture can provide a creative outlet on a smaller level if the world of architectural design feels overwhelming.
Real Estate
You learn a lot about architecture’s history as an architect or architecture student. It becomes second nature to learn architectural styles, identify architectural eras and know the features of specific areas or times. As an architect, you will have a wealth of information that is useful in all aspects of Real Estate, whether it’s in sales, construction or surveying. Every branch of Real Estate needs a thorough understanding of architecture.
3D Animation or Visualisation
Computer modelling software has become more accessible to most graduates in recent years, thanks to the development of CAD and 3D technologies. The industry of modelling and drawing with computer programs is booming, and there are many options for roles in this field. It is likely that some training and practice will be needed to learn new programs.
PR & Marketing
Selling ideas is a huge part of what it takes to be an architect. You have to illustrate, demonstrate and communicate a thought that you are thinking and convince a client, owner, or financier to believe in your idea. A second aspect of architecture involves translating a vision or brand into a space or building. Both of these skills are essential in the worlds of PR and marketing. As an architect, your skills are well-suited to explain concepts, ideas, and strategies.
Writing
Finally, writing. There are many ways to discuss architecture’s past, present, and future. The desire and need to write and read about architecture will never stop, whether it is fact, theory or history. Architects with “insider knowledge” of the industry can work as a blogger, journalists or novelists.
You can see that the skills you have acquired as an architect, or while studying to become an architect, will be valuable in many different industries. If you decide to change careers, you’ll find a wide range of options.
