Art Careers / Architect
What Does an Architect Do? An Art Career for Kids
Curious about this job? Here is what the work looks like, a typical day, the tools, where people do it and how to get started, plus a small activity so you can try it yourself.
What an architect does
An architect designs buildings like homes, schools, libraries and skyscrapers. They make sure buildings are safe, useful and good to be in, and they help guide the building as it gets built.
Real-world examples: Zaha Hadid; Frank Lloyd Wright.
A day on the job
- Meet with clients to learn what the building needs
- Sketch ideas and create detailed plans on the computer
- Build models to show the design
- Visit construction sites to check the work
Tools of the job
- Sketchbook and pencils
- CAD and BIM software
- Scale rulers
- Model-making materials like foam board
- Computer
- Hard hat for site visits
Where they work
- Architecture firms
- Construction sites
- Government offices
- Their own firm
The path in 4 steps
Start now
- Build houses and towns from blocks, cardboard or LEGO
- Draw your dream house from the front and from above
- Look closely at buildings in your town and sketch them
In your teens
- Take math, art, drafting and physics
- Try a free 3D design program
- Look for an architecture summer program
Training
Most architects earn a 5-year Bachelor of Architecture degree, and some earn a master's. Then they complete a paid internship, which often takes about 3 years, and pass a licensing exam. All states require architects to be licensed.
Build a portfolio
Drawings, models and building designs from school, plus sketches and art that show creativity.
Skills that help
- Drawing
- Math
- Problem solving
- Teamwork
- Thinking about how people use spaces
Try this job
A small taste of the real work, using things you already have.
Using only paper, tape and scissors, build a tower that can hold a small book on top. You get 20 minutes. Before you build, sketch your plan. After you test it, write one thing you would change. Architects plan, test and improve, just like this.
Ms Artastic lessons
Lessons that practise skills this career uses.
Watch with Ms Artastic
Videos from my YouTube channel that practise skills from this job.
Related art careers
Learn more
For pay, job outlook and training details, read the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook page for this kind of work.
Which art career fits you?
Answer a few quick questions and see which art jobs match what you love to do.
Take the Which Art Career Fits You quizQuestions teachers and parents ask
What does an architect do?
An architect designs buildings like homes, schools, libraries and skyscrapers. They make sure buildings are safe, useful and good to be in, and they help guide the building as it gets built.
How do you become an architect?
Most architects earn a 5-year Bachelor of Architecture degree, and some earn a master's. Then they complete a paid internship, which often takes about 3 years, and pass a licensing exam. All states require architects to be licensed.
What skills does an architect need?
Drawing, Math, Problem solving, Teamwork and Thinking about how people use spaces.
The Artastic Collective art curriculum
Full art lessons, videos and units for the whole year, ready when you are. Monthly, yearly and VIP plans.
