1. Chapter 1
Professional Architectural Careers, Office Practices, and Opportunities

2. Introduction
Architectural drafting and design satisfies many interests
Theoretical problem solving
Artistic creations
Creating something practical while working with your hands

3. Introduction (cont’d.)
Architectural drafting classes can lead to various careers
Drafter
CAD technician
Designer
Interior decorator or designer
Architect
Engineer

4. Drafter Creates drawings and details for another person’s creations
Responsible for proper line and lettering quality and properly laying out required drawings
Requires attention to detail
Drafters draw using pens and pencils
CAD technicians create them using a computer

5. Drafter (cont’d.) Beginning drafter
Job consists of correcting drawings created by others
Responsibilities expand as quality improves
U.S. National CAD Standards (NCS)
Aimed at bringing uniformity between consulting firms to ensure quality plans

6. Drafter (cont’d.) Experienced drafter
Makes construction design decisions (e.g., structural sizes, connection methods, drawing renderings, etc.)
Becomes more complex with experience
May work with city and state building departments
Requires familiarity with codes and vendors’ catalogs

7. Drafter (cont’d.) Educational requirements Personal requirements
Solid education, computer-aided drafting (CAD) skills, basic computer skills, and ability to sell yourself
Personal requirements
Function well in group settings
Reliability
Promote success among teammates

8. Drafter (cont’d.) Workplace ethics Employment opportunities
Rules and principles that define right and wrong conduct
Copyright protection
Employment opportunities
Range (e.g., suppliers, manufacturing companies, government agencies)

9. Designer States restrict title use Responsibilities
Formal training and a competency test
Responsibilities
Based on education and experience
Coordinates team of drafters
May work under an architect or engineer
Generally work in an office setting

10. Interior Decorator Decorates building interiors
Specific job requirements:
Meet with clients to determine project scope
Review and measure spaces
Prepare proposed room layouts and estimates
Provide samples
Arrange and oversee painting, wallpapering, and flooring
Select and purchase furnishings and items

11. Kitchen and Bath Designer
Area of specialization
National Kitchen & Bath Association training program
Associate Kitchen & Bath Designer
Certified Kitchen Designer
Certified Master Kitchen & Bathroom Designer

12. Interior Designer
Works with structural designer to optimize and harmonize interiors
Plans space features
Licensing depends on state requirements
National Council for Interior Design Qualification examination

13. Architect Licensed professional
Designs commercial and residential structures
Performs the tasks of many (e.g., designer, artist, project manager, and construction supervisor)
Education
Bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate
Fine arts classes help in preparation
Specialization in third year

14. Architect (cont’d.) Positions in architectural firms include:
Technical staff
Intern
Architect I, II, and III
Manager
Associate
Principal

15. Engineer Licensed professional
Applies math and science principles to structure design and construction
Electrical engineers
Mechanical engineers
Civil engineers

16. Related Fields
Many related careers require an understanding of drafting principles
Model maker
Illustrator
Specification writer
Plan examiner
Inspector
Construction jobs

17. Design Basics Financial considerations The client
Influences design methods
Designer makes cost and size decisions
Financial source can also affect design process
The client
House plans are often built in subdivisions
Stock plans allow for personalization

18. Design Basics (cont’d.)
Design process stages:
Initial contact
Preliminary design studies
Room planning
Initial working drawings
Final design considerations

19. Design Basics (cont’d.)
Design process stages (cont’d.):
Completion of working drawings
Permit procedures
Job supervision