How to Become an Architectural Designer

Becoming an Architectural Designer requires you to enroll in training classes or a degree program. In your training, you’ll learn about conceptual design and other important design principles, like balance and functionality. In addition to design principles, your training will introduce you to and help you master industry-standard software. Keep reading to find out about the steps to becoming an Architectural Designer. This article will help you determine your next steps for starting a career as an Architectural Designer.

What is an Architectural Designer?

Architectural Designers transform design concepts into reality. When studying architectural design, students learn how to create functional, sustainable, responsive, and aesthetically pleasing structures. This role requires one to develop technical design skills and soft skills. Architectural Designers must also keep up with industry trends. In recent years, sustainable design has become more popular among home and business owners. Many clients expect new builds to incorporate sustainable designs and energy-efficient systems. An Architectural Designer looking forward knows how to keep up with these trends and advancements in architecture and construction. 

Architectural Designers often work with other professionals involved in architecture and construction. Architects usually lead an architectural design team. They plan and oversee the construction process while also managing contracts. Architectural Designers may also work alongside Interior Designers, who make indoor spaces functional, and BIM Specialists. This role may also require collaborating with engineers, contractors, and clients. The level of teamwork associated with Architectural Designer roles means that individuals working in this field need excellent communication skills. 

What Tools Do I Need To Get Started?

Architectural Designers use several tools, including modeling software and collaboration tools. When you enroll in architectural design training, you’ll learn how to use these tools. You can also turn to the internet to learn the basics of these tools before registering for comprehensive training.

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Autodesk Revit

Autodesk Revit, also known as Revit, is a building information modeling (BIM) software. With Revit, Architectural Designers can create 3D models of buildings. Revit allows users to explore design options and understand the space within their design. Other professionals, such as engineers and contractors may use Revit, which allows for collaboration with a project’s Architectural Designer. 

Revit has a complex interface and a steeper learning curve than other drafting programs. You can develop a basic understanding of Revit in around two weeks, including a grasp of the basic workflow and using drawing tools, but you’ll need in-depth training to master the software. A standard Revit subscription costs $365 monthly or $2,910 annually. You also have the option of paying for a 3-year term at the price of $8,730. You can learn about Revit’s system requirements on the Autodesk Support web page. 

Autodesk AutoCAD

AutoCAD is a computer-aided design (CAD) software application used for 2D and 3D drafting, design, and modeling. Architectural Designers use AutoCAD to create floor plans, elevations, and sections within their projects. The software includes built-in tools that can analyze and fix weaknesses in a building’s design, making the design process more efficient. Powerful features within AutoCAD have made the software an integral part of the architectural design process. 

You can expect to spend anywhere from one month to one year mastering AutoCAD, depending on how much time you have to learn. The price of an AutoCAD subscription varies depending on how long you’d like to commit to using AutoCAD. A one-month subscription for a single user, for example, costs $250 while a one-year subscription costs $2,030 and a three-year subscription costs $6,085. Autodesk offers a 30-day money-back guarantee and the option to lock in your price for three years. 

Asana

Architectural Designers need to know how to use project management tools on top of design software. Tools like Asana help Architectural Designers plan projects. With Asana, users can keep track of tasks, delegate responsibilities, monitor project progress, and communicate with others. Users find Asana easy to use thanks to the program’s intuitive interface. Asana offers a range of subscription types, including a free personal version of the program, a $10.99/month Starter version, and a $24.99/month Advanced version. Companies that need to coordinate across departments with no limits can contact the company to learn about their Enterprise and Enterprise+ subscriptions. 

Slack

If you’re planning to become an Architectural Designer, you should also know how to use collaboration and communication tools. One such tool is Slack. Slack is a cloud-based messaging platform used by teams to collaborate and communicate. With Slack, teams can organize discussions within topic-based channels, direct message each other, and integrate work tools. Most users find Slack engaging and easy to use. You and your team can learn about Slack’s many subscription plans to ensure you choose the right version for your team’s needs.

Steps to Become an Architectural Designer

The steps to becoming an Architectural Designer are pretty straightforward. You may find that you have to start from the beginning or that you already have completed some of the steps. 

• Receive Architectural Designer training. When training to become an Architectural Designer, you have a few options. The traditional route is to pursue a bachelor’s degree in architecture or a related field. Another option is to enroll in training classes like the ones offered by Noble Desktop. In your classes, you’ll learn foundational design principles and how to use architectural design tools. Training classes also provide a great way to improve your communication skills, which will become essential when you’re an Architectural Designer. 
• Gain practical experience. Before you can pursue a career in architectural design, you need experience. Apply for an internship at an architectural firm. During an internship, you’ll gain experience in project planning, budgeting, scheduling, and developing drawings. Internships provide experience that you can include on your resume and in your portfolio. 
• Build your portfolio. You can include the work you’ve done at your internship along with class projects in your portfolio. The portfolio of a beginner Architectural Designer should showcase your skills, best work, and technical drawings. You can join architectural associations and attend workshops to help bolster your portfolio and resume. 
• Apply for Architectural Designer jobs. After you’ve completed your training, gained practical experience, and built a polished portfolio, you can apply for Architectural Designer roles. Search websites like LinkedIn and Indeed to find jobs in your area or in places you wouldn’t mind relocating. Make sure you thoroughly read the job description, including the required and preferred skills and experience. 

Architectural Designer Career Path

Once you have received comprehensive training and gained practical experience, you can pursue a career as an Architectural Designer. When searching for positions, you’ll find that most roles require at least three years of experience in architectural design. Most Architectural Designers first start as interns at architectural firms. With enough experience under your belt, you can advance to an Architectural Designer role. Architectural Designers usually work under an architect at a firm, but some Architectural Designers opt to offer freelance services. Freelancing allows you to set your own prices and take on projects you’re most interested in or passionate about. 

After working as an Architectural Designer for some years, you may find yourself wanting to advance within the field. Some Architectural Designers move on to becoming licensed Architects. To do so, you’ll have to meet the educational requirements to become an architect. This process usually includes earning a degree or even an advanced degree. From there, you’ll have to take and pass the Architect Registration Examination (ARE) and meet all licensing requirements. 

Why Become An Architectural Designer?

Architectural Designers are in high demand in the US because of population growth, aging infrastructure, and a growing trend toward sustainable design. Training to become an Architectural Designer will help you develop the skills needed to pursue this in-demand career. Getting started now can help you quickly enter the field and benefit from the expected demand. The industry is competitive, but you’ll likely find the salary and potential for growth rewarding. 

You should also consider becoming an Architectural Designer if you want to work in a creative field. Architectural Designers can express their creativity through their designs. Although clients usually have ideas in mind that designers need to follow, there is still a lot of room for creativity. Working on project designs will also give you the chance to improve your problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities. 

Learn the Skills to Become an Architectural Designer at Noble Desktop

Interested in developing the skills needed to become an Architectural Designer? Check out these accredited classes offered by VDCI. 

In VDCI’s online Revit Architecture Professional Program, you’ll learn Revit Architecture. Lessons included in this part-time program will teach you beginner to advanced-level skills. The program includes five Revit courses: Introduction to Revit, Intermediate Revit, and BIM Construction Documents I, II, and III. Over 26 weeks, you’ll spend 140 clock hours learning the skills needed to create models of real-world structures and buildings. Students who complete the class with a grade of 70% or higher will receive a verified credential from Accredible. 

If you want to learn Revit quickly, you can instead enroll in VDCI’s Revit Fundamentals Fast-Track Program. This program includes two online Revit courses that will help you develop the in-demand technical skills needed to create 3D models used in the field. VDCI’s fast-track program gives you the chance to learn Revit quickly and affordably compared to traditional degree programs. Tuition is roughly $1,200 plus fees, with payment plans available. You can expect to finish the course in 12 weeks or 60 clock hours. 

Enroll in VDCI’s BIM Certificate Program to learn the skills and knowledge applied in Revit Architecture. The class teaches you how to create construction documents directly from the BIM model and lets you specialize in AutoCAD Fundamentals, Revit MEP, Revit Structure, or another training path. This accelerated, accredited program includes 290 clock hours that you’ll spend taking lessons and working on a capstone project. After completing the course, you’ll receive a verified digital credential from Accredible. 

Need to learn the essentials of AutoCAD? Register for VDCI’s Introduction to AutoCAD class and learn how to use the software application to create and manage your drawings. This 100% online class includes lessons on drafting symbols, kitchen and bath fixtures, and a floor plan. You’ll also learn how to create and insert blocks and externally reference files. You can expect hands-on lessons as you draw a floor plan for a Habitat for Humanity residential project. To ensure that you develop the skills and knowledge expected, you’ll take quizzes related to your project, engage with classmates in a discussion forum, and submit regular progress updates. VDCI encourages you to engage with others in your discussion forums and during 1:1 time with your instructor.