INTEGRUS’ Post

When we all start our career fresh out of architecture college, we sometimes think after 5 years of meticulously working behind our studio desk and computer we have it all figured out. BUT DO WE? We spend days perfecting every detail on paper. When we walk onto the site we are, eager to see the vision take shape. But then, we start noticing the perfect design suddenly seemed a lot less perfect. That’s when it hits us: Designing on paper is one thing, but understanding how those designs come to life on-site is something entirely different. Here’s why making site visits a regular practice is essential: 1.Bridging the Gap Between Theory and Practice: What looks perfect on a drawing might encounter unexpected challenges during construction. Regular visits allow you to see how your designs translate into reality and how to adjust for on-the-ground conditions. 2.Understanding Materials and Methods: No amount of classroom learning can replace the hands-on knowledge gained from observing how materials interact, how they are installed, and how different construction methods impact the final outcome. 3.Improving Problem-Solving Skills: Construction sites are environments where issues can arise unexpectedly. Being on-site allows you to learn from these situations, develop quick problem-solving skills, and gain insights that are invaluable for future projects. 4.Building Strong Relationships: Regular site visits foster better communication with contractors, engineers, and other professionals involved in the project. These relationships are key to ensuring your designs are executed as intended and can open doors to future opportunities. 5.Gaining Client Trust: Clients appreciate seeing their architect engaged with the project beyond the design phase. Your presence on-site shows commitment and can build trust, leading to stronger professional relationships. For fresh architects, site visits are not just a box to tick—they’re an ongoing learning opportunity. So, make it a point to step out of the office, get your boots on, and immerse yourself in the reality of construction. Your designs and your career will be all the better for it. What were you feeling you saw your first creation being built on site? Let us know below! #architecture #architect #design #trending #explorepage

In today's fast-paced world, the gap between theory and practice can be a major obstacle to success. For young architects, this gap can be especially daunting, as they navigate the complexities of building design and construction. Site visits offer a powerful solution, providing hands-on experience and real-world exposure that brings theoretical concepts to life. By bridging this gap, architects can develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence to tackle complex projects and create buildings that inspire and serve communities. It's not just about architecture - it's about creating a better future, one building at a time. #architecture #youngprofessionals #explorepage

We've come a long way in redefining how we conceptualize and construct architectural marvels. The journey is one of innovation, blending tradition with technology to push the boundaries of design and function. But how did we get here? Read my latest article to explore the evolution of design methodologies in architecture. ✨ #Architecture #DesignEvolution #Innovation

Why do we discount the value of doing what we are passionate about? It amazes me when I hear people say "Don't focus on how much you are paid, focus on what you are passionate about." This makes no sense. If we are passionate about something, we are good at doing that thing. How many times have we praised a teacher who is passionate about making their students successful and building joy for learning in them only to follow that with the statement that teachers don't get paid enough? That's not only not fair, it's a gross misalignment of value. On the first day of my college architecture program the professor said "If you are here because you think architects can make a lot of money, there's the door. If you are here because you love to design and want to make a difference in the world, let's get started." 40 years later, some form of that same speech is given to first-year students. Why? When did we accept the disconnect between passion and value? Or, perhaps more correctly stated, WHY did we accept the disconnect between passion and value? Some did not accept that disconnect. In architecture, we call them Starchitects. We could all learn a lot from their business model - charge for the value you deliver. More importantly, why do architects' clients not value that passion? The answer is simple - design and buildings are seen as a capital expense, not an investment in value. A new building in the US is considered to have a 100-year life. The initial cost of that building will represent less than 5% of its overall life-cycle cost. Relative to the value it provides over the same time frame, the initial cost is a fraction of 1%. The cost of the initial architectural services for that building represents 1/4 - 1/2% of its life-cycle cost. The challenge is, design is considered as part of the initial capital cost not an investment in the building's life-cycle VALUE. This is a backward assumption since design decisions impact the long-term operational cost, and value, of the building. This is why the economic model of design is broken. It is a cost-based, not value-based model. It's time we flip that equation around. #design #architecture #vaule #innovation #sustainability #passion

If the sight of beautiful buildings makes your heart leap or if you find yourself lost in the intricate details of centuries-old structures, perhaps architecture is your true calling. But where do you start? How do you turn those daydreams into reality? Our staff has crafted an Architecture Careers Guide to help young people navigate the path to becoming an architect. Within the pages, we dive into all aspects of the career, starting with what an architect does and why it’s important, to the stages of architecture, different specializations within the field, the academic paths you may take, and more!   Architects don’t just create pretty structures. Powered by creativity and problem-solving, good design can enhance communities, help the planet, and maximize human potential. Want to learn more? Follow this link to view and download the guide or request a hard copy! https://lnkd.in/gPXHHfjR

[The Journey: How to Become an Architect in the USA.] A. The importance of architects in society Architects are the visionary creators who shape our world. Their designs . . . https://lnkd.in/drzszdbj

🔧 Choosing the Right Model Matters! 🔧 Architects and Designers, did you know that the way a sink is mounted can determine many aspects of your design? Like where to mount the faucet and soap dispensers? What is the correct lengths? and other questions. We receive these questions daily, and have been able to save many projects from having the wrong products chosen. At Stern Engineering, we offer one-on-one consultations to review your blueprints and ensure the right products are specified for your project. You and your team can join our AIA and IDCEC approved Lunch & Learns (L&L), Continuing Education Unit (CEU) and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) events to gain deeper insights into specifying touchless fixtures. #Architects #BuildingDesign #ContinuingEducation #TouchlessFixtures #SternEngineering

Building for learning 📚 We pride ourselves on decades of experience and exceptional design and delivery of education buildings. Proving that intelligent design moves at the beginning of every education project not only delivers efficient buildings, we have evidenced that design can positively influence 'in-use' capital and maintenance expenditure. We do this by following four simple design steps: 👉🏼 Improving insulation and air construction reducing draughts and heat losses 👉🏼 Careful form and orientation, to harness free energy 👉🏼 To simplify heating and ventilation through design 👉🏼 High standard construction detailing #architecture #educationarchitecture #education #design #architecturedesign #architects #educationbuild #learning

Architectural journey so far 5 key lessons I wish I had known: 1. Passion is paramount: Surviving the rigorous journey of architecture requires more than just talent. It demands an unwavering love for the craft to navigate through the endless nights of submissions, design critiques, and financial sacrifices. Without genuine passion, the seven-year trek towards the light at the end of the tunnel becomes insurmountable. 2. Communication is key: While mastering design and technical skills is crucial, the ability to effectively communicate and articulate ideas is equally—if not more—important in the industry. Building strong interpersonal relations, teamwork, and the art of selling your vision to potential firms are essential skills for success in this competitive field. 3. Embrace reality: Despite the freedom to explore boundless creativity in university, the industry often grounds us with client demands, regulations, and budget constraints. Understanding the balance between innovation and practicality is vital, as fulfilling the client's brief while adhering to financial limitations becomes the cornerstone of architectural practice. 4. Harness technology: Proficiency in architectural software like Revit and Autocad can be a game-changer in securing placements and gaining a competitive edge. Embrace the learning curve and don't fear mistakes—they're an integral part of the journey towards mastery. 5. Cherish the undergraduate phase: The university years offer a rare opportunity to push the boundaries of creativity and experiment with daring designs. Treasure this time, as the constraints of real-world practice may limit the freedom to explore unconventional ideas. Embrace the journey, learn, and grow—your passion will light the way."

Architectural World From ArcAdemia The Architect’s Playbook: Top 5 Strategies for a Successful Career in Architecture The world of architecture is not just about creating buildings; it’s a realm where art meets science, where creativity intertwines with practicality. For many, the allure of architecture lies in this unique blend – the opportunity to leave a tangible mark on the world, shaping spaces that define how people live, work, and interact. Yet, like any path worth travelling, it comes with its share of challenges and obstacles. Embarking on a career in architecture is no small feat. It requires a cocktail of skills – a keen eye for detail, a robust understanding of engineering principles, and, not least, a boundless imagination. But what often isn’t discussed in lecture halls or portrayed in the glossy pages of design magazines are the real-world challenges that young architects and students face as they step into this dynamic field. This article isn’t about painting a picture of doom and gloom; far from it. It’s about acknowledging the hurdles and arming you, the next generation of architects, with practical strategies to leap over them. Whether you’re a student burning the midnight oil over models and drafts or a young architect navigating the early years of your professional journey, this guide aims to shine a light on the less-discussed aspects of the profession. https://lnkd.in/dM8qJSQD