An architect is someone who plans, designs, and reviews the construction of buildings. To practice architecture means to provide services in connection with the design of buildings and the space within the site surrounding the buildings, that have as their principal purpose human occupancy or use. Etymologically, architect derives from the Latin architectus, which derives from the Greek (arkhi-, chief + tekton, builder), i.e., chief builder.
Professionally, an architect’s decisions affect public safety, and thus an architect must undergo specialized training consisting of advanced education and a practicum (or internship) for practical experience to earn a license to practice architecture. Practical, technical, and academic requirements for becoming an architect vary by jurisdiction.
The terms architect and architecture are also used in the disciplines of landscape architecture, naval architecture, and often information technology (for example a network architect or software architect). In most jurisdictions, the professional and commercial uses of the terms “architect” and “landscape architect” are legally protected.
The most basic definition of an architect is a professional who is qualified to design and provide advice – both aesthetic and technical – on built objects in our public and private landscapes. But this definition barely scratches the surface of an architect’s role. Architects serve as trusted advisers, their role is holistic, blending diverse requirements and disciplines in a creative process, while serving the public interest and addressing health and safety matters.
Perhaps, it would be best to describe architects as conductors who orchestrate and take the lead in reconciling all the goals for a building or other structure. Artistic imagination and creative vision to design spaces where their ideas and techniques-represented through form, light, textures, materials, and colors-combine to fulfill our aesthetic, spiritual, and cultural needs. Practical and technical knowledge to create spaces that are safe, efficient, sustainable, and meet economic needs. Interpersonal skills, psychological understanding and ethical practice to craft spaces that fulfill the complex, and sometimes conflicting, needs of clients, users, and the community.
