Is anyone on these boards an architect? Does anyone know any architects well? How is it as a profession and is it fulfilling? Is pay generally good (numbers if possible? I am a college student interested in the field, and deciding if I want to possibly major in it.
Ayn Rand, The Fountainhead
Check with my friend Art Vandalay.
architecture is a long and very intense course depending on where you study. During your first couple of years of work you will most likely be drawing concrete footings and wall details. The only chance you will have to showcase your artistic talent will only come when you start your own company or become a partner.
Or you will spend your time answering RFI's (request for further information) from the builder about your poorly designed documents :)
Income is generally not all that great. Better job would be in construction- such as project management, estimator or contract administrator if you are interested in building.
All very high paying compared to base salary of architecture.
I was always interested in becoming an architect, but I heard that it involved a lot of drafting and math. Unfortunately, math isn't my strong point.
I'm 30 and work for a boutique firm in New York.
I make 65K/year.
Work is not always great (many house renovations for difficult clients, contractors being a huge pain), but overall I love my job. Occasionaly we work on an exciting new buiding.
I am not licensed, but would like to be in 3-5 years.
Fun fact: we don't make much money, but girls seem to love architects, at least in NY.
65k seems alright, though not great, but it is obviously important above all else that you love your job. If one becomes a partner, can't one make 200k+/year. Is it difficult to become a partner.
Anyone else?
I'm curious about the salary range as well, thanks.
Architecture does require a lot of dedication and hard work, but is equally fulfilling. I am an intern architect in a firm of about 100 people. I got my Masters in May and I'm about 2 months from taking the exams.
I definitely DO NOT sit in the corner drafting stair and bathroom details all day long. In fact, I've been designing since my first "real" job 4 years ago. In the 3 firms I've worked, all interns are asked for their design input. I've even flown to meetings all over the country!
The pay can vary so much around the country, but can range from $35-40k out of school. Your salary jumps when you become a registered architect (pass the ARE). My parking lot has a good amount of BMW's, Lexus's, and Benz's.
You may also want to ask around on
Good luck!