The United Kingdom’s architectural sector is experiencing an overflow in demand for top talent. With increased client projects, firms actively seek skilled, foreign-trained architects to join their teams and contribute to their business goals.
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Many highly talented foreign qualified architects are considering relocating to the U.K. to advance their careers and earn big! However, the process is more complicated than it may seem, and securing a position can take time and effort.
Some professionals might be unaware they cannot use their hard-earned title of “Architect” in the U.K. unless they register with the A.R.B. Moreover, most architectural practices often favor candidates with previous experience in the U.K., which can be challenging to achieve, especially for those who have never worked there.
Now, let’s go through all it entails to successfully apply as a foreign-trained architect in the U.K. and earn big while at it.
What is an Architect?
With their creative and scientific skills, architects are tasked with designing plans and technical drawings for the construction of buildings. With responsibility for the safe construction and long-term durability of houses and commercial properties essential to the role, it’s no wonder that architects must experience a strict process to become fully certified.
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How Do I Become a Qualified Architect in the U.K.?
In the past, going to university was the main pathway to becoming a qualified architect. Following the introduction of architecture apprenticeships, there’s now an alternative to partaking in full-time study by gaining the experience and qualifications you need without the price tag of tuition fees.
If you need help deciding which path to follow, consider attending university or doing an apprenticeship. Rest assured that whatever you choose to do, your end goal will be the same: becoming a fully qualified architect and being able to join the Architects Registration Board (A.R.B.).
How Much Do Architects Make in the U.K.?
According to Talent.com, the average architect’s salary in the U.K. is £67,500 per year or £34.60 per hour. Entry-level positions start at £47,510 annually, while most experienced workers make up to £87,500 annually.
This varies based on several factors, such as the architect’s position, experience level, and certifications. The size and location of the company can also be a determining factor in how much money an architect makes.
How to Increase Your Salary as an Architect in the U.K.
Whether you’re a first-year architectural assistant, a foreign-trained architect, or an experienced architect, there are ways you can increase your salary. Many architects often work privately or accept other opportunities besides their daily jobs to supplement their income.
You can increase your salary by doing the following:
- Develop a specialism, such as project management, interior design, or consulting.
- Develop your drawing, presentation, and on-field skills.
- Stay updated with the latest software and undertake any relevant qualifications.
- Search and apply for freelance work alongside your primary employment.
- Require an increase in pay by showing how you have benefited the company during your time there, such as by bringing in new clients or gaining valuable certifications in new software.
- Launch your company, allowing you to choose your projects and set your fees.
Different Types of Architects
Commercial Architects
A commercial architect specializes in projects like hotels, office blocks, retail shops, public buildings, and other non-residential properties. They focus on developing practical and functional spaces for large groups of people. They may also create memorable or inspirational spaces like museums, art galleries, and community centers.
Residential Architects
A residential architect usually designs functional and affordable homes with real estate developers or private clients. They’re familiar with local planning laws and building codes, ensuring they can manage their client’s expectations. It’s common for residential architects to work with individual homeowners to build unique properties.
Industrial Architects
An industrial architect’s primary goal is to streamline a space so a business can improve its operations. They can integrate machinery, processes, and equipment into a building’s design to make the space more functional. Buildings typically designed by industrial architects include factories, warehouses, distribution centers, and storage facilities.
Landscape Architects
A landscape architect primarily designs outdoor spaces like parks, golf courses, walkways, and private and public gardens. These architects are experts in horticulture, helping to determine what plants, trees, flowers, and greenery go in different spaces.
Many landscape architects also work on interior projects to help designers integrate indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly. Due to the specialist nature of their work, landscape architects typically earn very high wages, although any architect with enough experience can expect to earn a high salary.
Commercial architecture firms are also known to offer high-paying salaries, so this is an area to consider if you have yet to decide which field to specialize in. Other lucrative areas for architects include sustainability initiatives and city planning.
Educational Requirement for an Architect
To become a qualified architect in the U.K., you first require a university degree recognized by the Architects Registration Board (A.R.B.). It takes approximately seven years in total to become an architect, with training divided into three sections.
All three phases include a combination of academic and practical education:
- Part 1 comprises your three-year degree program and a 12-month documented and overseen work placement.
- Part 2 often consists of two more years of education with a master’s degree, followed by another 12 months of supervised job experience.
- Part 3: The final part requires you to pass verbal and written practical and professional management tests to qualify as an architect.
Architectural Skills to Progress in this Career
Communication
Architects work alongside others throughout a building’s construction. Aside from the client, you may communicate with lawyers, construction managers, assessors, contractors, government representatives, tradesmen, and structural engineers, each with their priorities and needs. Learning to communicate successfully with each individual and ensuring everyone’s requirements are met can improve outcomes.
Creativity
If you want to specialize in cutting-edge structures that push the bounds of aesthetics, you require creative flair. An architect’s primary mission statement is to innovate and bring bold new ideas to fruition. Striving to develop new concepts and design ideas helps architects make their work memorable and well-received.
Math
What is possible in architecture revolves around mathematical laws. Architects must thoroughly understand numerical concepts, particularly in trigonometry and complex algebra. If you need the relevant G.C.S.E. or A-Level, enroll in a math class, as a grade C is required for admission to any architectural degree.
Legal knowledge
Apart from the client’s requirements and allocated budget, the most significant constraint on an architect’s designs remains the plethora of construction codes, laws, and policies they must follow. Although you have the assistance of a skilled surveyor in this area, having a basic understanding of the rules saves time. It also saves you from having to modify your designs later on.
Teamwork
Though you may conduct the main design work alone, you’re likely to regularly speak to builders, project managers, planning officials, and lawyers to provide information or seek updates about the project’s progress.
Attention to detail
Architectural drawings are meticulously detailed and accurate, whether hand-drawn or through computer-aided design (CAD). This is necessary for construction to go ahead safely and to budget. One incorrect window placement or poorly devised plumbing system could disrupt the project significantly. Attention to detail helps to ensure you don’t take shortcuts or leave anything to chance.
Leadership
You may have to explain specific plans or components of your design to other contractors and technicians. Some architects also choose to manage project builds, requiring strong communication, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Consider completing a project management course to develop your leadership abilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Architects Registration Board (A.R.B.)
The Architects Registration Board (A.R.B.) regulates the architects’ profession in the U.K. to ensure that good standards of conduct and practice are consistently maintained. A.R.B. is a public corporation of the Department for Leveling Up, Housing, and Communities
Can I become an architect without A.R.B. registration?
It’s essential to use the title of architect only if you are registered with the A.R.B. Anyone can verify whether you are registered with the A.R.B. – all someone has to do is search the A.R.B. register.
Remember that the title of architect is legally protected in the U.K. Claiming to be an Architect when you are not registered with the A.R.B. can lead to severe consequences and legal issues.