By Sarah Clark
Sarah.clark@careertrainingreview.com
Career Training Review Columnist
Architects have long held important roles in progressive societies. Great architecture is a mark of a civilization's strength, power, and knowledge. When we think of great cities, we often associate them with architectural marvels like the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco, and the Sydney Opera House.
While most architects do not work on landmark structures, they do engage in important work in designing buildings and homes that help us live our lives better. They design spaces that are safe, aesthetically pleasing, and functional.
Most architects develop a specialization after receiving formal training. They may specialize in designing hospitals or airports. Others might focus on residential architecture, designing single family homes, apartments, and town homes. Many go on to pursue work in commercial architecture, which focuses on the development of downtown office space, retail malls, and entertainment facilities.
Sustainable Architecture
With the rising cost of energy and the dwindling availability of nonrenewable resources, sustainable architecture is becoming an increasingly important development in architecture. Architects are thinking more about the advantages of building structures that can run on solar and hydro energy. They are also looking at the advantages of using eco-building materials such as bamboo, which is more sustainable than other woods because of its ability to grow quickly. Some architects may also use reclaimed wood and metals from old buildings as well as recycled carpet and floor coverings made from biodegradable materials.
Sustainable architecture is taking hold especially in the hotel industry, which is converting lighting systems to more energy efficient systems that turn on only when they are needed. They are also using faucets and toilets that conserve water and investing in more insulation in an effort to conserve energy in heating and cooling systems.
Architecture Degrees
The most widely recognized degrees in architecture are five-year bachelor's degrees in architecture and two-year master of architecture programs. Topics of study include building design, construction methods, and architectural history and theory. Those who do not have a bachelor's degree in architecture can get the necessary education to practice architecture through a three-year master's degree program.
Sources:
The U.S. Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook Report on Architecture, 2005
About the Author
Sarah Clark is a freelance writer based in Virginia.
Posted on : November 07,2005
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