Architecture is much too important to leave to somebody else for it reflects the society that builds it, but it also affects the way that society develops. This means we need architects who can respond to the different needs and values of all sections of the community. However, in the past most architects were drawn from a fairly narrow sector of society. In the future it is essential we ensure that architecture represents every social and cultural background.
Architects design houses and buildings. They plan offices and apartments. They design schools, churches, and airport terminals. Their plans involve far more than a building's looks. Buildings must be safe and strong. They must also suit the needs of the people who use them. Architects look at all these things. The architect and client first discuss what the client wants. The architect sometimes helps decide if a project would work at all or if it would harm the environment. The architect then creates drawings for the client to review. They may be involved in all stages of the construction of a building. If the ideas are OK, the architect draws up the final plans. These plans show how the building will look and how to build it. The drawings show the beams that hold up the building. They show the air-conditioner, furnace, and ventilating systems. The drawings show how the electricity and plumbing work. Architects used to use pencil and paper to draw their plans.
Today, more and more architects are using computers. Architects generally work in comfortable conditions. They spend most of their time in offices. However, they spend some time at building sites to see how projects are going.