What does it take to become an architect and lead a firm one day? Getting there involves so many moving parts that students and emerging professionals may find the journey daunting. Forever Practice: The Architect at Work provides a real-world perspective on the challenges and rewards of architectural practice. Author Jim Nielson, FAIA bridges the gap between academic knowledge and professional demands with this thorough, yet accessible, resource that guides the reader through essential skills, strategies, and ethics needed for success in architecture. Drawing on decades of real-world experience, Jim's unique conversational narrative immerses readers in the full range of architectural practice, from client relations to sustainable design, while addressing the evolving responsibilities and obstacles architects may face.
In 28 engaging chapters, the author demystifies the practice of architecture through first-hand accounts, case studies, and industry insights. Each chapter centers on a key topic such as licensure, project management, and codes of conduct. These clear and concise chapters emphasize sustainability and communication, equipping readers with the tools they need to navigate the complexities of the field with confidence and ethical grounding. Empowering readers to embrace the architect's role as a designer and leader in the profession, Forever Practice: The Architect at Work: - Provides concrete steps to develop sustainable, collaborative practices and understand critical responsibilities from project conception through completion - Includes a wealth of real-life case studies, illustrative examples, and professional insights to prepare readers for challenges in the field - Features discussion topics, project schedules, management tools, and supplementary materials for classroom and independent learning - Presents a comprehensive and structured learning path, with each chapter covering a key practice topic that lines up with a typical class period - Addresses vital ethical and professional standards, including codes of conduct, standard of care, and continuing education
Forever Practice: The Architect at Work is perfect for architecture students in professional practice courses, usually taught during the final years of BArch and MArch programs. It is also ideal for both early-career professionals and seasoned practitioners seeking to deepen their understanding of practice management and leadership within the industry.
Table of Contents
FOREVER PRACTICE
The Architect at Work
PART I FOREVER
Chapter 1
Caring about the world we live in
Chapter 2
Always looking for work
PART II PRACTICE
Chapter 3
We just keep at it
Chapter 4
Our environment
Chapter 5
The value of green
PART III PROFESSION
Chapter 6
The profession of architecture
Chapter 7
Architectural licensure
Chapter 8
Regulation and the code of conduct
Chapter 9
The architect’s standard of care
PART IV CAREER
Chapter 10
Core responsibilities
Chapter 11
Architecture and related fields
Chapter 12
Blog: architecture career and culture
PART V PROJECT
Chapter 13
Project management
PART VI FIRM
Chapter 14
Marketing and business development
Chapter 15
Marketing proposals
Chapter 16
Business and financial management
Chapter 17
Business and human resources management
Chapter 18
Getting it right I
Chapter 19
Getting it right Il
Chapter 20
What about risks?
PART VII COMMUNITY
Chapter 21
Giving back
PART VIII CLIENT
Chapter 22
One of a kind
Chapter 23
Delivery methods and the client
PART IX CONSTRUCTION
Chapter 24
Getting started
Chapter 25
Put it in writing
Chapter 26
Delivery methods and the contractor
Chapter 27
Bidder-designed work
Chapter 28
Closeout
PART X APPENDICES
Appendix A
The facilities program
Appendix B
The project plan
Appendix C
The project schedule
Appendix D
Breaking down the fee, scope, and schedule
Appendix E
Dividing up the work
Appendix F
Employee owned
Appendix G
The project progress report
Appendix H
The contractor’s S-curve
