Architecture is the technique, the study, and the art of projecting dimensions, designing, building, and modifying the habitat that surrounds us. The term comes from the Greek ἀρχ- (arch- the root of the word “chief”, or proper meaning of “authority”), and τέκτων (tekton, which is “constructor”).

If we look at the culture and history over the centuries, from the Greeks, who were wise in the construction technique, the role of the architect was the director or head of work. And the art involved in the process of architecture was the technique or the philosophy with which the construction of the structures, the buildings, and the projects was carried out.

The history of architecture is highlighted by three fundamental principles defined by the great architect Vitruvio that must be in balance: The Firmness (Firmitas), the Beauty (Venustas), and the Utility (Utilitas), although it is rarely remembered in the Universities and the studies. We could say that they are the bases that govern every architectural building.

What are the functions of an architect?

Although this depends on the country and its legislation, the main function of an architect is to design, draw, and detail a project or architectural space according to specific needs from its study, with the following supervision. It is also true that in some cases he or she acts on many other scenarios: efficiency issues in building or housing, specialized courses, urban planning in cities, projects of various kinds, civil works, as appraisers, in the world of interior design and industrial design…

There is an artistic, cultural, and creativity component that many architects want to exploit. Decoration and interior design themes are broad, such as the oriental technique of Feng Shui or more modern styles and straight lines such as minimalism. Architectural communities and platforms are extensive around the world with a special interest in practicing contests for global recognition.

Today we see new architects that are associated with other professionals to offer optimized and complementary services, collectives that optimize resources to increase production, new ways of working and new ways of being an architect. Today’s architect must be able to innovate, not only in models of architectural production but also in the way of generating one’s own work. The perfect customer that calls by itself does not exist and the contests that lead to fame and glory are a dream reached by very few. Therefore, they now seek to present innovative and differentiating services to reach the customer in an efficient way. They must detect needs and develop products or services that offer solutions to potential customers. An architect must move away from the topic of the artist, or artisan, and convince by his capacity as an entrepreneur, taking risks and investigating new opportunity markets.