What skills does a really successful architect need to have?
Communication skills are really important – presenting your ideas and communicating them graphically. You also need true enthusiasm, and to build up your experience. And you need to have confidence in your own vision. The best architects present theirs as the best ideas around. You’re expected to provide vision and leadership. That doesn’t mean being arrogant – it’s not just talking the talk – you’ve got to walk the walk too, and actually deliver what you’ve promised! What’s your least favourite part of the job? The money, and the long-hours culture. It takes a while to earn a good salary, and especially if people decide to work for themselves, it can be a struggle. You’re often working long hours, late nights and weekends – it’s difficult not to succumb to the pressure to make things absolutely perfect. And the planning system can be frustrating for architects, although that’s just part of the job. What advice would you give someone who was thinking about a career in architecture? Arc
