What is an Architect, and What Exactly Do Architects Do?
In it’s simplest explanation, an architect is a professional who is trained in the design, planning, and supervision of the construction of buildings and other physical structures. As Architects, we are responsible for creating functional and aesthetically pleasing structures that meet the needs of our clients while complying with building codes, regulations, and safety requirements.
An initial design drawing for an addition to a historic home. Drawings like this are an important tool in helping architects convey their thoughts.
Architects typically work closely with our clients to determine their requirements and goals for a building or structure they wish to construct. We then create detailed plans and designs that take into account factors such as structural integrity, safety, aesthetics, accessibility, and energy efficiency. During the construction phase, architects oversee the work of contractors and builders to ensure that the project is completed according to our design and specifications and design.
As Architects we may work on a variety of projects, including commercial and residential buildings, public buildings such as schools and government offices, and even large-scale infrastructure projects such as airports or bridges. Some architects also specialize in particular areas such as sustainable design, interior design, or historic preservation. At David Stumpf Architecture LLC, we specialize in commercial and residential buildings, and include within our scope of services; historic preservation, interior design, and sustainability.
To become an architect, individuals need to earn a professional degree in architecture and increasingly that requirement means a professional Master of Architecture degree. Before going on to found my own architectural practice I earned a Master of Architecture from The University of Texas at San Antonio where my education not only focused on architectural design, but also historic preservation and sustainability. Architects must also complete a period of supervised work experience known as the Intern Development Program which is governed by the National Council of Architecture Registration Boards (NCARB for short), and can typically range between two (2) to seven (7) years, and sit for six (6) licensing examinations before becoming licensed to practice. You can learn more about becoming an architect and the steps involved on NCARB’s website here: https://www.ncarb.org/
NCARB also offers what is know as the NCARB certificate, but not every architect is, or has to be an NCARB certificate holder. If an architect has an active NCARB certificate it means that they are licensed to practice in at least one state within the United States, and can easily apply for reciprocity within another state. This way if you have a project in a state your architect isn’t licensed to practice in, he or she could easily acquire a license to practice in that state to help you with your project. I am an NCARB certificate holder, and as of writing this post I am currently licensed to practice in the states of New York, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, and Texas.
The roll of the architect isn’t limited to the outside of the building. Many architects, such as myself also design the interiors of the buildings we design.
If you are curious as to what it takes to become an Architect, the process or the journey, feel free to reach out and we’d be happy to help you understand. Our goal with the work we do is to make Architecture more understandable and attainable for the general public!
You can find videos that detail more about what I and other architects do to bring projects to life, on my YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@David_Stumpf
