Career in Architecture

Architecture in India Architecture means the art and science of designing buildings and other physical structures. However, over the past few years the concept has vastly metamorphosed from dealing in urban design and landscape architecture to construction of furniture.

Aspiring architects need either a Bachelor’s degree (B.Arch) or diploma in architecture. The basic eligibility criterion for BArch courses is class XII or equivalent, referred to as the qualifying examination from a recognised board/university with a minimum of 50% in science subjects (physics, chemistry and mathematics). Besides, the candidate needs to clear an architecture entrance exam.“Even at the undergraduate level, architecture students are usually given an overview of areas directly related to architecture that they often tend to specialise in later. These include disciplines such as urban or rural planning, transport planning, urban design, landscape design, interior design, urban or building conservation, design of sustainable buildings, construction management, architecture theory, history and pedagogy, and so on. These days, a number of architecture graduates also turn towards other design or software related disciplines,” informs Shubhrajit Das, head of the department of architecture, Jadavpur University.Besides educational qualifications, a person should possess good eyesight, observation skills, creativity, analytical and mathematical ability and dexterity (in drawing and sketching) to succeed as an architect. Additionally, a burning desire to update one’s knowledge of latest developments in structural techniques and materials, an understanding of legal and financial matters and a good perception of social and psychological attitude, and an authoritative personality gives one an edge. For freshers, working in a well-known architectural firm or with professionals who have been in this field for a longer period, helps towards learning the practical aspects of this profession before one sets out on his/her own.

The scope for making a career in architecture has never been as big as it is today. Says Vivek Rathore, architect, “Thanks to technological advancement and big-scale projects, a number of specialisations such as building sciences, building material engineering, project management, urban planning, urban design and landscape architecture have emerged in this field.” Anuradha Rathore, also an architect by profession, echoes similar views with a stress on landscape architecture, “With the rising demand for sustainable architecture, the role of landscape architects and environment planners has become important. Landscape architects are now participating in the design process — right from conceptualisation to the master plan.” Like any other industry, getting the first break is difficult because this profession involves convincing your client about your ability to yield desired results. For an architect, the challenge is to produce an artistically pleasing design within a given budget. Also, it should be remembered that gaining experience as an apprentice has its own advantages. It not only adds to the résumé but also gives one the confidence to handle projects independently.

“A fresh graduate can expect to start off with an initial package of Rs 2.5 lakh per-annum. Thereafter, one’s success depends on an individual’s commitment and sincerity towards the profession.” Adds Das, “The initial earning varies with the location of your workplace and your area of specialisation. In a place like New Delhi, a graduate working in an architectural firm may get something between Rs 20,000 and 25,000 per-month initially. Whereas, working in a real estate company may fetch one something between Rs 40,000 and 50,000. Similarly, those who specialise in software design and work in reputed MNCs can command a starting salary of Rs 80,000-100,000 per-month.

• Architecture means the art and science of designing buildings and other physical structures
• Aspiring architects need either a Bachelor’s degree (BArch) or a diploma in architecture
• Besides educational qualifications, a person should possess good eyesight, observation skills, creativity, analytical and mathematical ability and dexterity in drawing and sketching to succeed as an architect
•  These days, a number of architecture graduates also turn towards other design or software related disciplines
• The role of landscape architects and environment planners has become crucial
• Specialisations such as building sciences, building material engineering, project management, urban planning, urban design and landscape architecture have emerged in this field
•  For an architect, the challenge is to produce an artistically pleasing design within a given budget