Architectural design is more than simply drawing lines on paper or learning how to use a computer program. It’s a skill, a skill cultivated through years of schooling and on-the-job experience.
However, not just anyone can work in architectural design services; results-oriented construction companies like Miller are very picky about who they hire. Many people can learn their way through architecture school and, when all is said and done, still do not have a knack for the work.
So, what exactly makes a good architect? What does that knack look like? Miller Architects and Builders, a construction project management company with a host of architects on staff, defines it below.
Architectural Design Takes a Certain Type of Person
Career success in any industry is determined by a great number of factors— but, above all, it is determined by certain personality traits that align well with the skills needed for any given job. When it comes to architectural design, a few helpful traits to have are:
A Creative (But Grounded) Spirit
Architecture is an artform as much as it is a science. A good architect will know how to think outside of the box to create novel and attractive building designs. However, they must remain grounded enough to understand when their latest idea might not be the most practical building solution.
At Miller, our portfolio demonstrates the harmony our architects strive to create between aesthetic innovation and practicality.
A Perfectionist Attitude
Architects must understand that their work’s finished product will impact the lives of countless people for years to come. Architects must also understand that they play a huge role in ensuring the long-term structural integrity of the building and, therefore, the safety of its occupants. As such, a good architect has a sort of perfectionistic drive about them— just like the architects you’ll find at Miller.
An Inquisitive Nature
A good architect wants to know anything and everything about any given project. They’re constantly asking questions, talking with superiors, seeking feedback, and overall communicating constantly to make sure they get the project right. We at Miller pride ourselves on our communicative, client-focused approach throughout the whole construction process.
Solid Communication Skills
Previously on our commercial construction blog, we’ve detailed why communication is paramount to success in completing a build. The short version: it ensures details aren’t missed, it promotes client satisfaction, and gives team members the resources they need to succeed.
Architects, too, need to be skilled in communication; they work with loads of different people while they’re on the job, and in order to get their architectural design right, they must get a clear picture of what each of these stakeholders wants.
Per The Balance Careers, “Architects must work closely with clients, engineers, construction personnel, and sometimes other stakeholders in a project. To complete a design successfully and see a project to completion, an architect must understand what all these people are saying and communicate with them clearly in return.”
They must also understand what medium—what method—is best for the communication of a given idea. Some things are so complex that they must be discussed in person, for instance, but others are simple enough that an email would suffice.
A Working Knowledge of Building Codes
According to The United States Department of Homeland Security, “building codes are the minimum design and construction requirements to ensure safe and resilient structures.” Of course, these are critical for commercial construction management pros to know and follow; for instance, they often are dealt with during the pre-construction process, as we cover in our blog. But they’re important to other personnel at other points of the construction process, too—namely, architects.
Without a strong and current knowledge of these codes, an architect will lag when finishing their designs, putting project timelines behind. Codes aren’t easy things to familiarize oneself with, as they can change depending on locale, but the better an architect can do so, the more efficient they will be.
This knowledge is especially put to the test while designing floor plans; check out our blog for more.
Ready to Start Your Next Project? Contact Miller Today
If you’re looking for not only the best architects around but the best construction management company around, too, you’ve found both of them here at Miller of Saint Cloud. We’d be privileged to help all your building dreams come true! For more information regarding our services, contact us at 320-251-4653.