Archinect - Forum

Looking for critique on my Portfolio

2024-07-23T00:24:00-04:00

Hi, I recently graduated and am looking for feedback on my interior design portfolio. Sorry if this might not be the right place, but it seems like the best place for portfolio feedback since the field work closely together.

My portfolio can be viewed at

https://yaelmk.com/

Changing firms when you have experience?

2024-07-22T14:26:00-04:00

In the past, the site has had a lot of discussion about team members change firms. These team members typically have low to mid level of experience (ten years or so max).

I'm wondering what more people experienced have encountered when looking to change firms. I'm thinking it would be a lot like getting back into dating after having been in a loooong term relationship. You know what you're doing but are kind of at a loss regarding the current process / culture.

People with 15+ years experience, any insight on this? Changing firms, not the dating. ;)

Examples of windows installed into party walls

2024-07-20T00:35:51-04:00

Anyone here ever design windows into an existing masonry party wall? Or is that just a bad idea in general?

At least here in California, we need to also have a 3' setback. Wondering whether having the windows protruding into the inside is something that would look really weird. Then the trouble of the additional fire protection, shutters (if needed) etc. Reason we are looking at this is because there is space were trying to get air and light to which are far from the glazing which is only in the front and back of the building.

Finding work in the UK / EU as a US citizen

2024-07-19T16:49:31-04:00

I am a young US citizen who has recently graduated with a non-professional bachelor's degree in architecture, planning to apply to graduate schools in London, Helsinki, Berlin, and Copenhagen this upcoming application cycle. I am interested in eventually becoming a permanent citizen either in the UK or EU (most attracted to London and Berlin), and would love to hear about the experiences other designers / architects have had moving abroad.

I'm particularly wondering about: ease of finding a job, sponsorships or visa requirements, unexpected challenges, benefits + holidays, professional growth opportunities, pay, pathway to citizenship, finding your community / network, differences from the US, etc. Is there anything you wish you knew or had done during the immigration process? Was there a difference in your professional life before and after becoming an official citizen?

Any perspective not specific to Europe or gaining citizenship is welcome. Thank you.

Path to Licensure- Canada or USA?

2024-07-19T11:17:46-04:00

I live in a border city in Ontario and am currently in the Internship in Architecture Program (IAP) to become a licensed architect in Ontario. I've always wanted the option to work in the USA (mostly because of the better pay), but would like the option to work in either country. Given this, should I consider working towards getting licensed through NCARB instead or continue through the OAA? Is there a way to be licensed in both countries? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

fire exit plan (basic) - which stairs

2024-07-18T12:50:14-04:00

hi! because fire exit stairs on the left are in a fireproof enclosure - should the arrows direct them to those stairs past the main staircase in the middle or shall I treat both sets equally and whichever is closer, you choose that. the room on the bottom right is a standalone space on the 1st floor.

thanks

M.Arch: Independent Thesis vs. Research Studio

2024-07-15T12:12:00-04:00

Hello all,

I am interested in the independent thesis vs. research studio structure that M.Arch programs employ for students in their final year. For example, Berkeley opts for the independent thesis, UCLA for the research studio, and UW offers either for students to choose from!

Is there an advantage of one structure over the other with respect to learning how to conduct design-based research? With respect to preparing to work in the industry (as a licensure candidate)? What are the schools’ rationales for choosing one over the other (or both)?

These are questions I’m asking of these schools in particular because I am interested in their programs, but I figured it can’t hurt to think aloud here while waiting for their replies. I would be happy to hear your opinions/experiences from any program, and I am also happy to follow up with their responses if anyone is interested.

Cheers!

Please i need advice about floorplan

2024-07-14T13:03:00-04:00

Hello experts,

I am doing my own project and I have created the following floor plans.
I am a noob so I would like to know if you can find better ways to divide the rooms.
My intention was to build different apartments in one building so that they could be divided in the future by just building a wall.
I am open to any new suggestions please see the pictures.
It is a 3 floor building.

Best online MArch program?

2024-07-13T19:52:00-04:00

Hello- I am a potential student with no architecture background and have to continue working part-time while in school (I understand this is not ideal as in-person conveys a different experience). It appears there are 6 online MArch programs that are NAAB acceredited: Academy of Art University, Arizona State University, Boston Architectural College, Lawrence Technological University, Southern Illinois Univerisity, and Rochester Institute of Technology. Which of these has the best reputation/chance of job after graduation?

Gluing aluminum flashing on flat surface

2024-07-12T16:18:00-04:00

The overall design is that the front door is about 20" inset from the front wall and the sides of that inset need to be covered, ideally with black metal looking material to match the rest of the trimming around the house

I was planning to use aluminum flashing (need about 20" wide). It needs to remain flat and, perhaps, withstand occasional light bumps. I was thinking of putting some kind of hardybacker backing and then gluing aluminum flashing to it using liquid nails in order to keep it perfectly straight and give little support. But worried about the Aluminum expanding at a different rate in heat and that causing problems. Any thoughts or advice on this? is there an alternative approach or alternative material that would not be cost-prohibitive?

EXAC prep 2024

2024-07-11T13:18:00-04:00

This is a thread to discuss preparation for the 2024 EXAC examination in Canada.

I'm based in Toronto ON.

Please join the discussion if you would like to.

What is a work sample?

2024-07-10T14:30:00-04:00

I've been in architecture for quite a while, but I'm still not sure what a "work sample" is when applying for an architectural position. It seems like it would be distinct from a portfolio, especially since sometimes a position posting/application requests submission of both work samples and a portfolio to apply. The name "work sample" suggests the actual product of one's work, such as construction drawings, renderings, sketches, and the like. But I also get the sense that "work sample" can often just mean "portfolio". So how do other people understand this term?

By the way, I have worked only as a (non-design) project architect with no rendering work, so my portfolio for the most part does not show my design experience or renderings. It consists of images of projects I've worked on to give a sense of the type of work I've been involved in. I feel that working drawings don't make sense in a portfolio like that. Details I've done might fit in if they're "aesthetic" enough, but...

Where in the US can I find a custom motorized wood shutter company?

2024-07-10T13:05:27-04:00

Looking for a company that makes similar products as here: https://www.wooden-blinds.eu/products/outdoor-wooden-blinds/ Looking to embed these shutters on the exterior of full height glass walls and the slats need to be remotely operated both up and down and open and close.

Helpful resource for students trying to navigate architecture firms for the first time

2024-07-09T15:07:08-04:00

Hi everyone. I think this might be helpful for students trying to understand or navigate the different types of architecture practices. I actually found out about this channel a couple months ago and it seems the channel posts helpful tutorials as well.

This is the channel United States of Design - YouTube

Video Below

Y'all really hate New Urbanism?

2024-07-08T12:38:00-04:00

A Google search brought me to the Archinect forum, where I was surprised to discover that many forum contributors have a deep disdain for New Urbanism.

This is entirely unexpected.

Enlighten me. Why do architects (seemingly) hate New Urbanism?

Career pivots and a return to architecture -- looking for guidance!

2024-07-07T10:52:58-04:00

Hi there, I'm looking on for some guidance on how to pursue the next step of my career. I have a BS in architecture from Georgia Tech and practiced as an architectural designer for about three years. In 2018 I had an interesting opportunity to get into UI/UX design and have been working in the field as a consultant now for almost six years. It was my hope getting into experience design that I would be able to leverage my background in architecture to think about space design in a different way-- incorporating more research and user centered design to create amazing physical experiences. I haven't really been able to bridge that gap despite my efforts. For the last year or so I've been itching to get back into architecture, I really miss designing spaces (since my job has been much more focused on interface design) and would really like to work on residential spaces. I'm really inspired by the series on Youtube called Never Too Small and I think I would have so much fun working on pr...

Presentation on AI and Architecture

2024-07-06T19:06:00-04:00

Hi all,

I have given a presentation on AI tools and Architecture. It is my theory they are more like co-pilots than competitors. Let me know what you think?

There is also a web-essay version.

https://sjmstudio.co.uk/s_a_o_...

CV / Resume for Young Professionals

2024-07-06T18:47:00-04:00

I've been meaning to update my CV and was wondering if the Archinect Community would have any good examples of CV and resumes for young professionals (2 - 5+ years experience). Obviously, this should not read like a recent grad CV so I was curious.

Aside from education and employment, what other items should be included? I assume publications and a list of previous projects.

Open to any thoughts and suggestions! Thanks!

Higher Raised Heel Rafter Design

2024-07-06T13:05:00-04:00

Hi, I'm planning on building a house in near future. I want a vented attic with lots of continuous fluffy stuff(R60+) and framed rafters. Wondering if this design with possible modifications has any chance of getting approved by a professional?

The point of it, is raising the top plate for more insulation while countering the force of rafters pushing out.

Neil Breen

2024-07-02T08:10:31-04:00

for those of you who follow outsider cinema, this guy is a legend. He’s made some of the most incomprehensible train wrecks that are up there in stature as cult classics like “the room.” He also claims that he is an architect (which I think explains the messianic/god complex he has toward himself in his movies). However, I am very curious what buildings he’s worked on. Does anyone here know?

M. Arch. Acceptance Deferral and Re-evaluation

2024-07-01T18:24:06-04:00

TL;DR: Do I have a chance at a better ranked M.Arch than UVA?

Background: I got accepted to UVA's M.Ach for Fall 2024 with some funding but I deferred my acceptance to next year, Fall 2025.

I am 37 years old. I graduated college with 2.97 GPA in applied math in 2015. I dropped out of my first college in 2007 and had a GPA of 1.63 there. I put together a pretty good portfolio and got into UVA, Georgia Tech and Syracuse. Unfortunately, Harvard, MIT, Cornell and Notre Dame rejected me however. Is there a way for me to go back to school and take undergraduate classes or non-degree classes anywhere for a year or so and re-apply to atop 10 school?

My job is 100% remote and it's very easy. Boring as sin, but I rarely work more than 20 hours per week so I can go to school and work while I build up my GPA and portfolio.

Should I just go with UVA, as I am not getting any younger, or delay the process for another 2 years and try again? I think UVA is an amazing school and program but I much woul...

Fee to Transfer CDs to another architect?

2024-07-01T12:12:00-04:00

I have a 100,000sf warehouse project in NJ with a client that made many changes over the course of the project, and was very difficult from day one to get payment for my work. I broke ties with them after they finally paid me, and gave a former employee the task of doing the Construction Administration. I don’t believe they have applied for a permit yet.

They now want changes made and they want me to give my former employee authority to make the changes. I don’t necessarily have a problem with this, except I think someone should pay for the rights. I will get my insurance companies input and lawyers input on liability. But what should I charge to release the BIM files?

New Logo Options

2024-06-30T13:05:00-04:00

Hi everyone,

New member here.

I'm a 30 year old architect, and so far I have been working for other companies. As I intend to eventually go solo, and slowly start to develop my own 'thing', I have been thinking about a new logo. I've narrowed it down to these options:

I wanted to keep it simple, preferably not too pretentious, and at the same time to relate it somehow - even if just on an abstract level - to building (structure, mass, etc). Most of them are basically my initials - PA. I'm mostly drawn to a kind of silent, "low-profile" architecture (if possible, with a twist), and my aim is to focus mainly on small scale residential projects (if you find this information helpful at all).

This is a work in progress, and any feedback would be appreciated.

What do you think?

Thank you,

Circular Steel Column

2024-06-29T01:45:11-04:00

I can’t find the UL listing for a 3hr gypsum board assembly that would protect a steel column with a circular cross section. Any pointers here?

Friday Diversion: Sh!tty Developer Work

2024-06-28T08:58:44-04:00

The image below is the main living space of a townhome development near me. The red circle is the towers of downtown Indianapolis. The photo doesn't capture it, but it's a very lovely view, especially at night. And the view will never be obstructed, as this end unit townhome looks over a retention pond and then straight down an east-west corridor street right to the city.

Somehow at no time along the site planning, street layout, and construction process did anyone think "Hey if we put a big window here it will have a great view to downtown and be a selling point!" Instead the unit has the same stupid high horizontal window (useful for *blocking* a bad view but still letting in light) and a huge picture window looking right out onto the street, the townhomes 40' across the road, and the speed limit sign.

Slapping my damn head.

This is so damn bad...

2024-06-27T14:44:51-04:00

Tom Wiscombe's Saudi Project

Russian education in USA

2024-06-27T14:08:00-04:00

Hello!

I have a Russian diploma (college) in technician with a degree in civil and residential construction.

I worked for 4 years, for 3 years I worked as an assistant architect, that is, I drew under the guidance of an architect. And for a year I worked as a design engineer, I developed drawings of reinforced concrete structures.

My first question is: with such a case, what can I count on here in the states? Now I live in Minnesota.

My second question is: Where can I find building codes here in the states? How to find drawing rules.

The third question is: do they hire people with poor English?

Thank you! And good mood to all!

Inspirational Websites

2024-06-27T12:56:22-04:00

The title says it all.

What websites do you use for inspiration in architecture? They don't have to an architectural website. Disclaimer: They do have to be safe for work. You know who I'm talking to. ;)

Does anyone regret getting into architecture?

2024-06-27T02:43:00-04:00

After more than a decade in architecture, my desire to change careers has grown increasingly strong, particularly after working for several corporate firms. Many large companies encourage employees to obtain their licenses. However, once licensed, there is often no corresponding reward or promotion.

The path to becoming a principal in architecture firms is arduous, requiring years of experience to reach a level of substantial salary and influence. Companies expect you to bring in projects, yet business is not part of an architect’s formal education. Architects are trained to be excellent designers, not business people. However, being adept in business is crucial for sustaining a company.

When large firms acquire new projects, they tend to hire more staff. Conversely, during lean periods, they lay off employees, making one feel like a disposable resource. This cyclical nature of employment adds to the growing disillusionment with the profession.

No matter how hard we work as licensed...

CEU Credits in Seattle, WA

2024-06-26T13:38:08-04:00

Hello,

I am in charge of Lunch and Learns at my firm. I was curious if anyone in the Seattle area could connect me to material reps giving CEU credit courses?

Thanks!