An internship in architecture can be a transformative opportunity, providing hands-on experience and a chance to learn from seasoned professionals. During a summer internship in architecture, interns can gain insight into the various aspects of building design, from initial concept development to final construction. Architects must possess a broad range of skills, including attention to detail, creativity, problem-solving, communication, and leadership. Through an internship, students can gain practical experience in these areas and experience what it is like to work in a firm. However, understand that depending on the size of the projects the firm works on, you may not experience every aspect over a summer internship time frame.
The ten lessons learned from a summer internship in architecture, as outlined below, can provide a valuable roadmap for success in this exciting and rewarding field. Whether you are a student or a professional seeking to gain new skills, these lessons can help you develop the knowledge and expertise necessary to succeed as an architect.
1 ATTENTION TO DETAIL
Attention to detail is essential in architecture: Architects must pay close attention to the details of a building design to ensure that it meets the functional, aesthetic, and safety requirements. Minor errors, such as the incorrect placement of a window or a door, can have significant consequences in the final building design. Architects must constantly review their designs and be willing to make changes along the way.
2 COMMUNICATION
Communication skills are critical to ensure that everyone involved in a project is on the same page: Architects must communicate their ideas clearly and effectively to clients, contractors, engineers, and other stakeholders involved in a project. This requires strong verbal and written communication skills, as well as the ability to listen and understand other perspectives.
3 PROBLEM-SOLVING
Architecture is not just about designing buildings; it is also about problem-solving: Architects must find creative solutions to various design challenges, such as meeting building codes, accommodating the needs of different users, and optimizing energy efficiency. They must also balance competing design objectives, such as aesthetics, functionality, and cost-effectiveness.
4 TIME MANAGEMENT
Time management is crucial: Architecture projects have strict deadlines, and architects must manage their time effectively to ensure that they meet these deadlines while producing high-quality work. This requires setting realistic goals, prioritizing tasks, and allocating time wisely.
5 COLLABORATION
Collaboration is a key part of architecture: Architects often work in teams with other professionals, such as engineers, contractors, and builders. Effective collaboration requires good communication, mutual respect, and a willingness to compromise. Architects must also be able to lead and manage teams effectively, delegating tasks and coordinating efforts to achieve project goals.
6 FEEDBACK
The ability to take and incorporate feedback is essential to creating successful designs: Feedback from clients, colleagues, and other stakeholders can help shape and refine a design, improving its functionality, aesthetics, and overall quality. Architects must be open to feedback, willing to make changes, and able to incorporate feedback in a constructive and productive way.
7 TECHNOLOGY
Familiarity with architectural software and technology is critical: Architects often use advanced software to design and visualize projects, and they must stay up-to-date with the latest software and technology to remain competitive in the industry. They must also be able to use these tools effectively to create high-quality designs that meet project requirements.
8 CONSTRUCTION PROCESS & MATERIALS
Understanding construction processes and materials is essential: Architects must have a thorough understanding of construction processes and materials to create designs that are practical, safe, and cost-effective to build. They must be able to select materials that are durable, sustainable, and suitable for the building’s intended use.
9 SUSTAINABILITY
Sustainability and environmental considerations are becoming increasingly important in architecture: Architects must be familiar with the latest sustainable design practices and materials and incorporate these into their designs to reduce the environmental impact of buildings. This requires a deep understanding of energy efficiency, water conservation, and other green building principles.
10 ACCESSIBILITY
Attention to ergonomics and accessibility is crucial: Architects must create buildings that are safe, comfortable, and accessible for all users, regardless of age, ability, or mobility. This requires attention to details such as the height and placement of door handles, the width of hallways and doorways, and the availability of ramps and other accessibility features. By designing buildings that are inclusive and accessible, architects can help create a more equitable and inclusive society.
A summer internship in architecture can be a life-changing experience, providing valuable insights into the many aspects of building design and construction. By learning from experienced professionals, interns can develop a broad range of skills and gain practical experience in the field. The ten lessons learned from a summer internship in architecture highlight the importance of attention to detail, communication, problem-solving, time management, collaboration, feedback, technology, construction processes, sustainability, and accessibility. These lessons provide a roadmap for success in this exciting and rewarding field and can help aspiring architects develop the knowledge and expertise necessary to thrive in a competitive industry. As architecture continues to evolve and become increasingly complex, it is essential to remain adaptable, creative, and committed to lifelong learning. With the right mindset and dedication, anyone can succeed in a career in architecture and make a meaningful contribution to society.
Written by
Katelyn Rossier, AIA, NCARB, LSSBB
