Strangely, in maybe no other field exits so different interpretations of one profession. Are we artists? Engineers? Researcher? Sociologist? Marketeers? Writers? Designers? Or is the ‘professional generalist’ - as we like to see our-self (like the renaissance man) just wishful thinking, when many of us work on door schedules or construction documents?
Today, there are many new opportunities available to emerging architects, as Rory Hyde writes in his article Potential Futures for Design Practice - “overturning the inherited assumptions of the design professions”: new roles like being a “Community Enabler”, a “Unsolicited Architect”, a “Practicing Researcher” and more. Join the discussion on Potential Futures for Design Practice at Rory Hyde Projects / Blog.
Great post. I like the idea of design consultancy. Isn't the European model a little closer to this? I heard that in France architects primarily do schematic level designs, and then another firm takes the project through CDs.
ReplyDeleteThanks!
ReplyDeleteAbout Europe. Yes and no: As I know for Germany (and Austria) the architect is more regarded as an engineer (doing CDs), whereas e.g. in France and the Netherlands the architect is usually more the designer / artist. Of course more accountability (which means being part of the building process) leads to higher income and the need for more technical staff at an architectural practice.
Interesting post. We have been doing okay by gaining reputation by taking leadership of the entire project, serving as the project manager from design to construction completion. This has been a valuable assets for my clients and will likely continue to serve us well.
ReplyDeleteI feel the role of an architect is more of an artist than designer/contractor.I think the French version of architecture is the future. Frank Gerhy considers himself more of an artist.
ReplyDeleteMy future as an architect (just finished second year) will be getting an excellent education, producing good design and leading by example. If this means I end up working on door schedules or construction documents then this is all good if I have contributed to the design of the door type, where it is going and/or how the building is constructed. Generally, the problem i see with the built environment, especially residential, is these design decisions are performed by someone who doesn't really know what they are doing. This is leading to poorly designed buildings.
ReplyDeleteThe vast possibilities for any invovlement in Architecture, whether direct or indirect, is one of the sources of its' richness. And while each should feel compelled and free do pursue his or her own trajectory we must continually be mindful of the discpline that we are contributing too. I can imagine that at some point, if droves of architects seek alternative methods of "making a living" the standard or the guranteor of those alternatives may become so tenuous that it is lost. This is not a pessimistic stance just the thought that lingers in my mind... WHAT are we all tangentially contributing to?
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