Rapid urbanization has led to an increasing demand for qualified architects for designing, construction and renovation of luxury apartments, shopping malls and commercial structures across India. According to a recent report by Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), the country has around 65,000 registered architects, but needs a whopping 396,000 by 2020. Despite the huge supply-demand gap, there are relatively few takers for architecture as a career in India.
If you are eager to seize this opportunity, but not sure how to prepare for this career, here are some important things to know about the nitty-gritty of this career option.
Job Description
Architects are among the key professionals in the construction industry. They either design new buildings or refurbish existing ones, but may also be responsible for providing suggestions on restoring or preserving historical structures. As an architect, you may need to work closely with clients, engineers, suppliers, managers and construction workers and be involved in every phase of a construction process – starting from designing to implementation. While taking care of the cost-effectiveness and aesthetics of a building, you should also be able to ensure its safety, functionality and environmental sustainability. Roles and responsibilities of an architect may vary but usually include;
Discussing the ideas, requirements and budget of a project with the clientPreparing design proposals and sketches of the proposed building by hand and/or using computer-aided design softwareInteracting with other construction professionals and getting feedback, especially on the feasibility of the projectPresenting design proposals to a client, giving advice or making changes to the layout, if requiredSpecifying details about the project, including timeline, budget and materials requiredObtaining quotes from suppliers and contractors and negotiating with themWorking closely with engineers, construction workers and quantity surveyors from the beginning to the end of the projectVisiting the construction site and monitoring the progress of workResolving any issues that might come up during the construction phaseEducational Qualification
Typically, you need a bachelor’s degree in Architecture (BArch) to enter into this profession; however, entry with a diploma in the same subject is also possible. You must pass 10+2 or equivalent exam with at least 50 percent marks in Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics to qualify for a BArch program. Eligible candidates may also need to clear The All India Engineering Entrance Examination (AIEEE) or an entrance exam conducted by the Council of Architecture in India. BArch is a five-year bachelor’s program, covering a wide range of chapters, including building conservation techniques, urban or rural planning, interior designing, sustainable building and construction management. After completing the five-year program, you may choose to enroll in a two-year master’s degree in Architecture (M.Arch) or take a job to start your career.Skills Required
You need a diverse range of skills and qualities to deal with your wide-ranging roles and responsibilities as an architect. Here are some major requirements for this profession.
CreativityGood drawing skills (both by hand and using software such as CAD)Attention to detailStrong math skillsExcellent communication skillsGood problem-solving skillsManagerial skillsPractical knowledge of structural engineering, building materials, construction equipmentPatiencePhysical staminaAbility to work together with other professionals and interact with clientsCareer Opportunity and Salary
The employment outlook for architects is looking quite bright, as India is likely to become the world’s third largest construction market by 2025, building an average 11.5 million homes per year, estimates a recent report by Global construction perspectives and Oxford Economics.
With a bachelor’s degree in Architecture, you’ll find several job opportunities as an architect, architecture designer, interior designer or architecture engineer. Many government organizations, including The Archaeological Department, Housing and Urban Development Corporation, and National Building Organization offer high paying jobs, while some private firms, including C. P. Kukreja Associates, Architect Hafeez Contractor, SEMAC Private Limited and Archkons hire architects throughout the year.
Your salary in this profession may range from Rs. 3 lakh per year to Rs. 16 lakh per year, depending on your qualification, designation, experience and skills.
To be successful as an architect, you need a combination of formal education, skills and natural talent. If you think you are a good fit for this profession, start early and put your best efforts to build a career as an architect.