Does it sound intimidating? ... I guess not.
But, as I sat updating this project roster (both of current projects, as well as the archived master list)... Wow. There's a lot of projects!
Now, I learned that an architect's job doesn't end after the building is designed. Throughout the entire construction process of the building, the architect is observing and inspecting, making sure things are actually being built to the plans.
*(Sidenote: It's so cool because Lance once showed me, a while back, the CAD drawing of one of his projects in comparison to the in-process being built building! I could see the similarities even though it was just the wooden frame!)
Even after the building has been completed, it really may not be "completed" until a year later. If the Construction Completion is 1/1/2017, then the Final Completion will be 1/1/2018. This is if the building has a Warranty Follow Up. This warranty is for if there are any 'flaws' in the structure. Most importantly if it causes hazards or harm to the users.
So, back to the project roster. Relating it back to my last post, and how in simple terms the architect designs a medium that coordinates with client, engineer, environment...etc. Whilst having a page-long list of different projects, and coordinating with multiple people per project. Honestly, I don't have words. I have a newfound (additional) respect for architects.
So, these projects... What do you think happens to all of the previous project blueprints and drafts?
Archived! (Especially for bigger-scale projects) All information regarding their finished project is boxed up and stored. These boxes remain stored for 10 years. This is due to the high liability architects hold.
We live, eat, sleep, work, play in these structures. A prominent part of our lives, that we might not even notice due to its abundance and regularity in the urban society. If something goes wrong, the blame goes to the architect. From there, it is the debate of who's 'fault' it is. With all of the project files archived, the architect can then have physical evidence to clarify the entire situation.
I think this post will conclude the concept of being an architect. :) Prepare for next week!
-Victoria
Wow, I had no idea being an architect was so complicated and they were liable for complications. I am looking forward to learning more!
ReplyDeleteI knew so little about architecture! This is very interesting. If construction is not going to plan, and an architect realizes, what can they do to fix it? Considering they aren't the one actually building the building?
ReplyDeleteYup! This is why the architect must carefully review what is occurring. Although it won't be the architect's fault, so-to-say, but it will be the architect who will have to go through the hassle of clearing his/her name. When construction is still in process, things are still easier to change, before the final is unveiled. :)
DeleteWow, this sounds really interesting. Has getting your hands on the life of an architect challenged any ideas you had before your internship?
ReplyDeleteIt has definitely been a reality check for me! (In a good way!) Much more regulations, financial aspects, and less "freedom" (so-to-say) than what I had originally perceived. Nothing meant in a negative manner though! I feel like it moreso emphasizes the architectural significance.
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