Architect Commercial

Commercial architects design buildings to meet clients' requirements.

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Commercial architects prepare designs and specifications for commercial buildings, such as offices and factories, retail outlets and shopping malls, rail and air terminals, hospitals, hotels, and sports and leisure facilities. They do not design single-occupancy homes, which are the responsibility of residential architects. Architects held approximately 113, 700 jobs in 2010 and employment opportunities are forecast to grow by 24 percent from 2010 to 2020, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Qualifications

Commercial architects require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in architecture from a university or college program accredited by the National Architectural Accrediting Board. The programs typically take five years and focus on topics, such as building design, structural systems, computer-aided design and construction materials, according to Education Portal. Graduates must then complete a three-year internship of practical training before taking the Architect Registration Examination. Only candidates who pass all seven sections of the examination are eligible for a state license.

Client Liaison

At the start of a project, architects meet clients to discuss their requirements. Architects prepare and present initial proposals, typically in the form of a sketch design. The initial proposals may also incorporate feasibility studies or site reports. As the project progresses, they maintain communication with the client, providing detailed plans, specifications, budgets and schedules. They provide the client with progress reports and arrange meetings to resolve any problems that occur during the design or construction phase.

Design Coordination

Commercial architects may carry out detailed design development themselves or coordinate the work of a design team. They prepare detailed drawings and scale models, if required. Architects also coordinate the design input of specialists, such as structural engineers, electrical and plumbing engineers, lighting and interior designers, and heating and ventilating engineers. They ensure that all design elements comply with building, fire, and health and safety regulations. From the approved designs, architects prepare detailed specifications and contract documents that form the basis for obtaining estimates from contractors.

Project Management

Architects may advise clients on choosing contractors and help them to negotiate contract terms. During the construction phase, commercial architects may coordinate and supervise the work of contractors and sub-contractors, establishing quality standards for the project. They set schedules, monitor progress and manage contracts to ensure that the project is completed on time and within budget.