Architects work with clients, who could be businesses, individuals, local or federal governments to design aesthetic and functional structures. From the conceptualization of the building design to using software to render 3D walkthroughs of structures and determining the budget range, architects handle a range of complex, high-priority tasks.
They not only design a building’s outer and inner appearance but are also concerned with the design of plumbing, electrical, heating, air conditioning, and sustainability of the building. Additionally, these professionals have to ensure adherence to relevant building laws and codes, as well as features such as disability access and safety issues.
Architects visit the project site to monitor if the materials being used are of the desired quality, construction is as per the plan, and that contractors are following the quality standards and timelines.
The security offered by professional liability insurance
Given the critical nature of their work, architects are exposed to multiple risks. While they work with and supervise teams and third-party contractors, any errors or negligence on the part of any of the concerned can be detrimental to the project and client satisfaction. Either as a result of unreasonable expectations on behalf of the client concerning the project scope or deadlines or actual mistakes such as budget overestimation, delays in completion, or faulty work from a contractor, architects can be sued for negligence.
With the rising cost of defending against malpractice or negligence lawsuits across many professions, it is recommended for architects to acquire professional liability insurance. Professional liability insurance provides financial protection against lawsuits from malpractice or negligence by covering defense expenses, settlements and judgments with respect to the claim. Check here for more information.
Types of architect jobs
Building Architects – Every admired structure across the world has an architect behind it. Some building architects specialize in commercial structures such as one or multiple-level office buildings, skyscrapers, or shopping malls, while others focus on residential designs, including single or multi-family homes and condos.
Residential architect: Residential architects work with homeowners who wish to have beautifully customized residences. While taking note of the homeowner’s functional, budget, aesthetic, and spatial requirements, residential architects design the building plan, layout, interior design, and elevations. They provide an estimate of the expenses related to services and materials while also estimating the time required to complete the construction and interiors.
Commercial architect: Well-designed commercial spaces are not only aesthetically pleasing but are functional, safe, and achieve optimal utilization of available space. A successful commercial building design ensures a streamlined and efficient flow of materials and people to optimize the building users’ experience. For instance, a shopping mall that is designed well enables shoppers to find their way around easily without walking more than necessary.
Industrial Architects – Designing industrial structures or production facilities requires specialized skills and experience. Functionality, safety, and efficiency are the top three priorities in designing industrial or production facilities. Industrial architects are required to be well-versed in safety regulations and standards, as well as the specific elements of a particular business to design a functional building.
Landscape Architects – These architects specialize in the aesthetic design of outdoor spaces such as playgrounds, parks, institutional campuses, and gardens. Landscape architects are also called upon to design the outdoor areas of both commercial and residential buildings. They also undertake restorative work of natural areas such as wetlands and historic areas, while keeping in mind the prevalent plants at the time and integrating them into existing practices. Landscape architects have extensive knowledge of environmental factors such as sun, drainage, shade, and wind, and also the effect plants have on structures.
Green Design Architects – With many cities across the world aiming to reduce net carbon emissions and adopt renewable energy sources, the spotlight is on green building designs. Green design architects are involved in designing energy-efficient ‘green’ residential and commercial buildings. Green design architects specialize in building designs that achieve passive cooling or heating by optimizing the orientation and location of walls, windows, and other elements.
They are adept at using sustainable building materials such as recycled plastic, sustainably sourced wood, composite materials, natural materials such as brick and stone. They may also be hired to design specific systems in buildings, such as harnessing solar power or utilization of rainwater. Their goals are to minimize the use of non-renewable energy resources and mitigate negative effects structures have on the environment.
Urban designer: Urban design involves multiple specializations such as green design, building architecture, and landscape design. It deals with the planning and design of neighborhoods, cities, and districts. Urban designers are responsible for overseeing the design and construction of a cluster of buildings, paths, street networks, and building codes. While these architects have to be familiar with multiple domains, including politics, economy, and culture, they also need to communicate and interact closely with communities that are their actual clients.
