What Do Architects Do? Perceptions, Myths, & Reality.

"Architecture is the process and product of planning, designing, and construction, usually of buildings and other physical structures."

The word Architecture is used in many different ways today.  From the general term of a physical structure, to the design of landscapes, and even to information technology systems

People have numerous perceptions of what architects do.  Many people think architects sit at a desk all day drawing plans.  Architecture is much more involved than that.  Architects and designers need to be connected with not only the building they are designing but the space where it will be built.  Connecting with the environment where you are building is extremely important.  In simple terms, you wouldn't build an igloo in Hawaii or a thatched roof in Alaska.  

The surrounding environment takes a huge role in successful architecture.   When Amily was discussing the work of Rick Joy, an Arizona architect, she said something that really resonated with me.  "What does this site want this building to be?"  This pertains to a "site visit"- where an architect or designer goes to the site and takes in the surroundings/nature/views giving them a sense of what they should design.  

Architects and designers also must be very involved with their clients.  They are building this space for someone else and need to find out their dreams and needs for the project.  If it is a home the designer should find out where the client spends their time and which rooms in the home they use most.