Placement Overview

This placement is a qualified Architect working for Paul Archer Design. Paul Archer Design is a young architectural company, committed to innovative modern design. They have a team of ten working on projects across the UK. This architect specialises in design for high-spec residential projects. Their work includes kitchens, bathrooms and other interiors.

Generic Job Description for an Architect

Architects design buildings for residential or commercial purposes. They produce detailed designs for the exteriors and interiors of buildings. This can be for new buildings, renovation and conservation.

They work with clients and other people in the Construction industry to look closely at their needs and ensure that their designs meet those requirements.

Architects are involved in building projects from start to finish, producing the initial designs at the start of a project and overseeing the building work throughout.

Skills:

• An eye for detail
• Imaginative
• Good drawing skills
• Creativity
• Good communication skills
• Good organisation
• A logical and analytical approach to problem solving
• Good people management skills 

Pay:

• Entry £15,000 - £25,000
• £25,000 - £35,000 with three years experience
• £30,000 - £60,000 with 10 or more years experience

Please not that salary figures are a guide only. Actual salaries may vary depending on the organisation and geographical location

Hours:

• Typically 9-5 Monday – Friday
• Overtime common in order to meet deadlines 

Environment:

• Primarily office based
• Visits to construction sites are common

Qualifications:

• Entry without a degree or HND is unlikely
• A non degree route involves 6-14 years industry experience
• Most degree courses require five GCSE’s grades A-C and two A-Levels

Training:

• Full-time five year degree course
• Two years on-the-job training
• An examination in professional practice and management

Opportunities:

• There are around 30,000 Architects practicing in the UK
• Employers include architectural practices, local government and construction companies
• The majority of opportunities exist in London and South East England

Links:

www.arb.org.uk - Architects Registration Board (ARB)

www.citb-constructionskills.co.uk - Construction Industry Training Board (CITB)

www.riba.org - Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA)