Leading Companies & Markets
While studying architecture a student can gain part time work as a trainee architect. Graduate architects initially tend to work for a building or architecture firm gaining experience.
In Australia you have the choice of working as a sole architect in your own business or working for a small, medium or large company with international exposure. You can also choose to work in a city, regional centre or country town. The well known large architectural firms are Beresford, Blake and Thomas, Sinclair Knight Mertz and John Wardle Architects.
Environment & Culture of the workplace
You will spend most of your time in an office using computer aided technology to design the building. Sometimes hand drawn sketches are made as part of the design process. You work both individually or as part of a team depending on the size and scope of the project. Regular visits to the building site are required so you are frequently outdoors.
Architecture is tied to the building industry and therefore experiences the highs and lows of the industry. If there’s a lot of construction going on then work is plentiful and hours may be long at times; if work is scarce then that impacts on your workload too.
This profession requires a high level of creativity, intellect, flair and insights. There are people you work with that are of a high calibre, stimulating and innovative.
About the Author
Len Chapman
Director of Slap Architects
Slap Architects is a recognised architectural practice offering architectural and interior design services. They supply customers with consultancy services, design excellence, innovation and environmental responsibility. Slap Architects are currently involved in commercial, residential, education, health and tourism projects. They have a strong focus on buildings which improve lives, optimise energy efficiency and minimise environmental impact.
Did you know that the longest bridge in the world over a body of water is the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, New Orleans, USA, measuring 38.6km?