Architectural Tools of the Trade

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Architecture is one of the most important professions to society as a whole. No, architects aren’t doctors, law enforcement, first responders, or public servants, but they do make sure all those professionals have a base from which to operate. They imagine the buildings in which we live, do business, and gather with others. Indeed, architects are central to civilization. Furthermore, they have a bright future in a city like Denver that values beautiful and sturdy structures.

Architecture is a field that joins art, math, and construction, and it takes a person with acumen in all those fields to excel. It also requires having the right architectural tools to get the job done. In this brief article, we’ll discuss some of the tools of the trade of architecture.

Pens, Rulers, and Sketchbooks

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We live in the era of Industry 4.0, and architects have more tools than ever at their disposal to design infrastructure. However, a few basic tools will always have an integral role in architects’ repertoires and even their hearts.

If you look into any architect’s satchel, you’ll find pens, rulers, and a folder full of sketches. Additionally, architects have always used rulers, triangles, compasses, and measuring tape to help them make accurate measurements and draw straight lines and angles. No matter how advanced technology gets, these tools will always play a role in the design process.

Tablet

One thing you’ll notice when you walk in many Denver architectural firms these days is that many of the architects are using an Apple iPad Pro rather than a traditional drafting board to do their work. Of course, architects still use the traditional tools of their trade, but when technology provides a better or easier way of doing something, it’s wise to take advantage of it.

Networking Skills

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Networking is a great skill for architects to have. They often have to manage entire construction sites, meaning they’re responsible for everything from hiring subcontractors to handling backhoe tread and lift truck fork replacement on service vehicles. The more connections you have within the construction industry, the easier it will be to get the right contractors for specific projects and solutions for everyday problems.

One of the best things about being an architect is that you’ll get to meet people from all sectors of the construction and real estate industries. Learning how to build business relationships will help you go a long way in your career and even on specific projects. As they say, sometimes it’s more about who you know than what you know.

3D Printer

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We mentioned earlier how architects use advanced technology for certain architectural processes, and project modeling is one of them. Architects can input their designs into a 3D printer and create imperial-scale models of their designs. This is helpful, as 3D printing is quicker and more affordable than traditional methods of creating scale models. Moreover, 3D printers are capable of fitting intricate designs to dimensions that are nearly impossible for any person who’s not a master sculptor.

All you have to do is look around to see the contribution of architects to our society. Every building in sight was once a drawing and then a blueprint before it was manifested and put to use. Indeed, from penthouses to warehouses, architects design it all. Of course, to do their best work, they must have the right tools.

Some of the basic tools architects use to create masterpieces include tracing paper, tablets, as well as pens and pencils. Architects also use 3D printers to bring their designs to life and create engaging models for presentations. Architects are artists at the end of the day, and they can do amazing things with the right skills and instruments.