crickets...

Jefferson, I've done it. If you don't have additional credentials, you need to have an outstanding portfolio. A lot of architects just assume that they can do graphic design, but the biggest hurdle is learning to work well with type. I would consider at least taking a class or two to make the transition happen.

"A lot of architects just assume that they can do graphic design"

Agreed and the reality is..they can't. Graphic design is much more than just using photoshop and illustrator. I'd read books on typography etc. and get additional classes or self educate myself. Also, keep in mind that most graphic designers these days work freelance because that field is saturated too. If you decide to work freelance then it is easier I assume, you can just build a portfolio and hunt for projects.

As already noted, it isn't a seamless transition.  I have done it too, but took years to do it.  Web classes, countless graphic books, etc., etc.  It will take time and effort.

Certainly possible, though.  Just expect it to be work to get there.  Some architect's are great graphic artists, but not without a lot of effort.  Most, as noted, think they are but truly suck (we could say that for almost anythign creative, though, but thankfully the graphic world takes things far less seriously than architecture).

My advice - go subscribe to Computer Arts (expensive, but worth every penny, esp. starting out).  Frequent sites like FFFFFound and QBN.com, Graphic Exchange and others.  To be good in any profession, you need to know who the best are, why they are the best, etc.

I went in the reverse direction: graphic design to architecture. Both are tough fields. Want a skill that gives you plenty of opportunities and good pay? Learn HTML, CSS, Flash and how to develop iPhone/iPad apps. You'll be in demand.

For graphic design, go to the library and begin with Bringhurst's, "The Elements of Typographic Style". This at least establishes the complexity of the issue and the fundamentals. My list in no particular order:

http://www.aisleone.net/

http://www.itsnicethat.com/

http://www.computerlove.net/

http://www.swisslegacy.com/

http://www.underconsideration.com/

http://www.logodesignlove.com/

http://designobserver.com/

Ok, how about going from architect to web designer?  What do I need to learn in order to do that?

Trace- Where did you take your web classes? I've been doing some graphic/ UX work on the side and now I want to sharpen my skills further since I'm looking at a possible career switch. More than graphic, my interest lies in User Experience where I can actually implement some of the research/ design tecnniques I've learnt over the years.

moving from one crappy market to another...good luck bro

That sounds like a really insecure reason to choose a career... because you want to be different? 

if you want to be different, wear a coonskin cap.