Architects are the masters of building design. They bring projects to life with their expert knowledge and skill sets through clever and meticulous planning processes. However, current times dictate less of a pull for architectural insight and input. There are many factors at play that are detrimental to their longevity – so how does an architect remain relevant? And what are these external pressures coming down on modern architecture?
Procuring Projects
With more and more people gaining degrees and specialist qualifications, the job market has shrunk. This is true also of the world of architects. There is only a finite number of building projects being commissioned, yet the number of architects grows at an unsustainable rate in comparison. Therefore procuring projects becomes less inevitable as more competition joins the fold. This is a major challenge across the job board; however, in niche roles such as architecture, perhaps the sting is a little stronger?
Keeping Up to Date with Technology
Architecture has shifted from pen and pad to a more technological platform. This can be a barrier for those who are not entirely tech-savvy. They essentially have to re-learn the processes in an alien way as opposed to doing what they are an expert in in the way that they are accustomed to. But times change, and the world of commerce has to keep up with these changes. Architecture is no exception. This Lenovo Desktop for Architects is a credible example of the type of hardware the modern architect needs by their side to do the job properly and professionally with the latest advances in precision and design.
A Decline in Living Standards
Perhaps the most significant factor is the epic and disproportionate decline in the global living standards. Many people are slipping below the poverty line and struggling to afford necessities such as food and heating. Where then, is the room for such concepts as architecture? The housing market, too, has been affected. There are fewer houses available at affordable rates owing to abstract, obtuse renting and homeowner policies marketed by austerity, and bills and energy crises just top it all off.
So, in such a world, where people cannot afford bread and milk, the decline in private architecture endeavors seems quite a natural consequence. There is a market for it, for example, in social housing projects or breathing life into the community. But these projects rely on government funding which is just not available.
In the main, there will always be a need for architects. New buildings must exist and there must be someone to plan for them. It takes expert skill, precision and a niche knowledge base that only some humans are capable of possessing. It is not just a skill you can pick up by practicing; it is more of an innate ability. However, more people able to access higher education and fewer protective policies in place for renters and homeowners has shifted the goalposts and led to a society on the brink of chaos, where the role of the architect seems somewhat alien.
