Main Responsibilities and Required Skills for an Architectural Designer
An Architectural Designer is a professional who combines creativity and technical expertise to create architectural designs and plans for various structures. They work closely with architects and clients to translate ideas and requirements into visual representations. In this blog post, we will explore the primary responsibilities and the most in-demand hard and soft skills for Architectural Designers.
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Main Responsibilities of an Architectural Designer
The following list describes the typical responsibilities of an Architectural Designer:
Answer
Answer calls in a professional, clear, and warm manner.
Apply
Apply principles of lighting design to enhance spaces.
Apply principles of proportion, scale, and balance in design compositions.
Assist in
Assist in coordinating the design of projects, including liaising with clients.
Assist in developing project scope, plan, and services and during the contract process.
Assist in development of conceptual and schematic design packages.
Assist in managing Architecture team members and assists in managing project schedules.
Assist in managing client expectations, team communication and consultant coordination.
Assist in planning layouts of structural architectural projects.
Assist in the preparation of construction documents and specifications.
Assist in the preparation of project proposals and bids.
Assist in the production of architectural plans, details, and specifications.
Assist Lead Architects on other tasks including updating schedules and checklists.
Assist project designers and project architects with materials selection and system research.
Assist the client with Bidding and Negotiation for contractors and subcontractors.
Assist the Senior Architectural designer on other tasks including updating logs and checklists.
Assist with egress analysis drawings, fire separation analysis and code matrix analysis.
Assist with preparation of schedules and applications for department filings.
Assure
Assure HOK document standards are met and archives documents appropriately.
Attend
Attend client meetings, consultant meetings, and visit project construction sites.
Attend design team meetings.
Attend meetings to coordinate drawings and resources.
Attend meetings with Client and / or other disciplines and maintain action logs.
Build
Build models for client / project team review.
Collaborate with
Collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams.
Collaborate with architects and clients to understand project requirements.
Collaborate with construction teams during the construction phase to address design-related issues.
Communicate
Communicate design ideas effectively through sketches and drawings.
Compile
Compile list of outstanding issues which are either not resolved or not coordinated.
Compile data and perform elementary design computations.
Conduct
Conduct feasibility studies and cost estimates for projects.
Conduct on-site observations and document site reviews.
Conduct research on architectural precedents and historical references.
Conduct site visits and surveys to gather necessary information.
Contribute to
Contribute to office activities, initiatives, and learning programs.
Coordinate with
Coordinate and follow through between plans, elevations, sections, roofs, and details.
Coordinate arrangement designs with other.
Coordinate project tasks and schedules of project consultants.
Coordinate with all disciplines involved, to produce contract documents.
Coordinate with all disciplines on requirements for assigned area.
Coordinate with all disciplines on routing and space allotment.
Coordinate with and advises clients throughout the construction phase of the project.
Coordinate with engineers and consultants to integrate structural and mechanical systems.
Coordinate with other offices / companies at interfaces between design areas.
Correspond
Correspond, coordinate, and collaborate with the design team and project managers.
Create
Create and present design solutions using corporate standards and client's specifications.
Create conceptual designs and develop architectural drawings.
Create plans, elevations, drawings, details and layouts for buildings.
Design
Design and plan complex architectural projects of varying types.
Design and plan complex architectural projects of varying types within the Lifestyle / COB sector.
Design building that conforms to Code and By-laws.
Design new or existing building components and systems to develop or improve them.
Design single family homes and prepare Architectural drawing packages using REVIT-Architecture.
Design sits at the center of all we do.
Develop
Develop and coordinate all details, drawings and specifications.
Develop and manage the production of the contract documents.
Develop architectural construction and finishing material specifications.
Develop architectural designs and drawings from preliminary concepts and sketches.
Develop architectural talent.
Develop demonstrations of technical concepts.
Develop detailed drawings to comply with zoning and building codes and construction budgets.
Develop excellent design options.
Develop, modifies, and reviews construction documents.
Develop presentation and progress reporting.
Develop solutions to technical and design problems following established standards.
Develop strong visualization and spatial reasoning skills.
Direct
Direct client interface with the support of the project manager.
Direct construction administration activities on projects.
Draft
Draft and review project contract documentation, profitability, staffing and technical resources.
Engage
Engage in creative design development tasks individually or as part of a team.
Ensure
Ensure compliance with safety standards and accessibility requirements.
Ensure designs comply with relevant.
Evaluate
Evaluate and propose sustainable design strategies.
Evaluate site conditions, including zoning requirements and site constraints.
Finish
Finish and material selections.
Foster
Foster a commitment to external and internal client service.
Generate
Generate 3D models and renderings to present design concepts.
Guide
Guide and mentor team members on tailoring design approaches to achieve best project value.
Have
Have a solid understanding of sustainable design principles.
Help
Help us make a positive impact on the Esquimalt Community by building this unique project.
Incorporate
Incorporate building codes and regulations into design plans.
Incorporate Integrated Sustainable Design solutions into projects.
Initiate
Initiate and create architectural designs from concept through to construction.
Input
Input in the production of feasibility studies, and design brief reports.
Input on the siding, colors etc..
Integrate
Integrate and coordinate all parties for successful completion of construction projects.
Integrate and coordinate with all disciplines as required to complete project tasks.
Lead
Lead design meetings and presentations with clients and stakeholders.
Lead development of architectural design.
Lead technical assistance and guidance on new proposals and contracts.
Learn
Learn new software (Microstation and 3-D Open Buildings) and be thorough on CAD graphic standards.
Locate
Locate all doors, windows, lighting fixtures and other building architectural materials.
Maintain
Maintain awareness of current building.
Maintain project documentation and records.
Maintain project manual and specifications.
Maintain the project manual and specifications.
Make
Make design revisions based on written notes, redlined drawings.
Manage
Manage client relationships and team communication.
Meet
Meet and discuss changes to the drawings not documented formally.
Operate
Operate within ISO Quality system and company safety policy in all phases of assignments.
Oversee
Oversee and manage the construction administration phase.
Participate in
Participate in design reviews and presentations with clients and stakeholders.
Participate in pre-design tasks, including visioning sessions and zoning analyses.
Perform
Perform analyses of design, planning and occupancy studies, and limited design layouts.
Perform other such duties as the supervisor may from time to time deem necessary.
Perform product research.
Perform routine tasks under general supervision using well-defined standards, procedures and codes.
Perform shop drawing and submittal reviews.
Perform technical reviews and edits to design documents as required.
Possess
Possess knowledge of building systems and construction methods.
Prepare
Prepare 2D and 3D architectural design drawings in all phases.
Prepare 2D and 3D presentation / design drawings.
Prepare accurate, detailed material.
Prepare and submit permit drawings, coordinate with the municipality and other consultants.
Prepare detailed architectural plans, including floor plans, elevations, and sections.
Prepare detailed designs and renderings for the fabrication of models and displays.
Prepare initial design from written notes, sketches, and inspirational photos.
Prepare MTOs, and architectural material specifications.
Prepare permit drawings from approved schematic design drawings.
Prepare presentation drawings as required for design-build projects.
Prepare presentations, renderings, and other materials to elegantly convey design ideas.
Prepare project change documentation as required.
Prepare project specifications, compiling and analyzing relevant data.
Prepare reports to document the progress.
Process
Process submittals, RFIs, substitution requests, etc. during construction.
Produce
Produce accurate technical and contract documentation for construction of project.
Produce graphic presentations, 3D renderings, and construction drawings.
Produce graphic presentations, physical models, 3D renderings and construction documents using REVIT.
Proficiently
Proficiently use architectural design software and tools.
Provide
Provide Architecture Department construction contract administration.
Provide direction and leadership to members of the design team.
Read
Read, understand, and comment on manufacturer drawings and specifications.
Refine
Refine and direct the development of design options and building details.
Research
Research and analyze Zoning By-Laws in different municipalities.
Research and develop ideas for exhibit content.
Research and select appropriate materials, finishes, and fixtures for the design.
Research and specifies building materials, systems, and products.
Research codes and verifies code compliance.
Research materials and specs.
Resolve
Resolve complex design issues with innovative and practical solutions.
Resolve complex technical and design issues.
Respond to
Respond to clients and outside consultants, as directed.
Respond to RFI's (Requests for Information).
Review
Review and revise design plans based on client feedback and project constraints.
Review background and intent of the project, including discussing with the development team.
Review completed reports, plans, estimates, and calculations.
Review drawings and designs to ensure adherence to established specifications and standards.
Review information from reports and published documents.
Review specifications and vendor documentation for associated material and equipment.
Review & understand IFC drawings from 2 different architecture firms for the same job.
Review & understand SI's from 2 different architects as they relate to the IFC drawings.
Stay updated on
Stay updated on the latest architectural trends, technologies, and materials.
Supervise
Supervise and review the work of junior staff and provide input and mentoring as required.
Survey
Survey and document existing field conditions.
Take
Take an active role in new business development.
Take
Take personal responsibility for fostering a green workplace through sustainable work practices.
Understand
Understand and assists in the management of construction schedules and budgets.
Understand and interpret architectural drawings and blueprints.
Understand basic tenants of various engineering reports associated with project construction.
Understand client needs & manage expectations accordingly.
Understand codes and standards in building design.
Understand permitting and certification processes for building projects.
Understand the contract and responsibilities of the Architect of Record for the project.
Uphold
Uphold the company Code of Ethics.
Use
Use computer-aided design (CAD) software to create accurate and precise drawings.
Utilize
Utilize hand and 3D software renderings to communicate design concepts.
Utilize knowledge of materials and finishes for functional and aesthetic purposes.
View
View products in the manufacturing.
Work with
Work and collaborate with other discipline team.
Work closely with design team and assists to complete projects on aggressive schedules.
Work in conjunction with the engineers, working from the engineer's or architect's directions.
Work with Horizon North Purchasing and vendors to source, review and specify equipment.
Work with internal Project Managers and Architects to establish project requirements.
Work with the consultant team to coordinate drawings.
Write
Write reports and specifications, as requested.
Most In-demand Hard Skills
The following list describes the most required technical skills of an Architectural Designer:
Proficiency in CAD software (AutoCAD, Revit, ArchiCAD).
3D modeling and rendering skills (SketchUp, Rhino, 3ds Max).
Building Information Modeling (BIM) proficiency.
Knowledge of construction documentation and detailing.
Familiarity with building codes and regulations.
Experience in sustainable design and energy-efficient practices.
Understanding of structural and mechanical systems.
Ability to create accurate scale drawings and blueprints.
Proficiency in graphic design software (Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator).
Knowledge of architectural visualization tools (V-Ray, Lumion).
Understanding of interior design principles.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
Experience in parametric design and computational design tools.
Familiarity with virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies.
Knowledge of construction materials and finishes.
Ability to conduct site analysis and space planning.
Understanding of acoustics and soundproofing.
Knowledge of accessibility guidelines and universal design principles.
Experience with project management and collaboration software (Trello, Asana).
Familiarity with estimating and cost management tools (CostX, Bluebeam).
Most In-demand Soft Skills
The following list describes the most required soft skills of an Architectural Designer:
Creativity and innovative thinking.
Strong visual and spatial awareness.
Excellent communication and presentation skills.
Attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
Problem-solving and critical thinking abilities.
Time management and ability to meet deadlines.
Adaptability and flexibility to changing project requirements.
Strong research and analytical skills.
Attention to detail and precision in design work.
Strong understanding of client needs and ability to translate them into design solutions.
Ability to receive and incorporate constructive feedback.
Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to build relationships with clients and stakeholders.
Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Strong leadership and project coordination skills.
Professionalism and integrity in dealing with sensitive and confidential information.
Self-motivation and proactive attitude towards learning and professional growth.
Ability to effectively communicate design ideas to clients, contractors, and other team members.
Collaboration and coordination with multidisciplinary teams.
A passion for architecture and a commitment to delivering high-quality design solutions.
Conclusion
An Architectural Designer plays a crucial role in the creation of architectural designs and plans. They are responsible for translating concepts into visual representations, ensuring compliance with regulations, and collaborating with various stakeholders. The most in-demand hard skills for an Architectural Designer include proficiency in CAD software, 3D modeling, and knowledge of building codes, while the essential soft skills include creativity, communication, and problem-solving abilities. By possessing a combination of technical expertise and interpersonal skills, Architectural Designers contribute to the successful execution of architectural projects.
