Hi All,

I have recently been considering a change of career, and feel that Architecture would be the perfect career option for me. I am currently employed as a Graphic Artist, and I have a degree in Multimedia design and excellent creative and 3D modelling skills, so I feel I have the skills needed for this type of work, but at this point I have no portfolio which reflects Architectural work.
My question is, at 27, am I too old to start training as an Architect, and what would be the best course of action for me? I feel full time education is not an option as I still need to earn a living to pay the mortgage.
Any help or advice you could give me would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

Have you looked up courses at universities? I think it's a very long degree/training period (7 years springs to mind for some reason)and that the money is not good to start off with. I could be wrong though.

[URL=http://www.architecture.com/go/Architecture/Home.html]

Have a look on this website. It is a long training as you have to qualify in building construction as well as design.

We went to a local Civic Society talk last night , so I missed a bit of Grand Designs having forgotten to set the tape . These talks are really interesting, given by visiting architects, last night's firm was from Manchester.

Civic Societies are usually set up in most areas of the country and work alongside local planners, architects etc. in promoting interest in new design and the protection of old buildings. They scrutinize planning applications that affect listed buildings or conservation areas and write an opinion which is well respected and taken into consideration by the planners.

Getting involved in this should help you to find out more about architecture as a career.

Opps I'm not very good at these urls!

Thanks for the suggestion Donjc.

I have looked at several uni courses, but the same old problem comes up - not being able to go into full time education.

From what I can see the best course I can take is get into an Architects office, and do my training while working there. But thats more easily said than done.

Just wondered if anyone had any other advise or experiences?

Thanks Spongemum (Great name!!!)

That website looks great - loads of info., and I'll definately look at going to a Civic Society talk.

Thanks again.

Hi
Try looking at:
AJ
It's the affiliated website of Architects Journal, a massive group of publications all linked to the architecture and construction industry. There are jobs advertised too which may be a little ahead of what you're after right now but the site should give you lots of info and maybe some contacts including specialised job agencies who may be able to give you some advise. Good Luck!

Thanks elsbells - I'll check it out.

Can I just say - I'm new to this forum, but I've got to congratulate everyone on being so friendly and helpful - great forum.

Keep it up everyone.

LeeBez

On the whole the standard of architecture and architects in the UK is pretty poor.

I assume that you are interested in domestic architecture and not office blocks or power stations.

Combine your present career with building your own home, all the elements you require are out there, but it is not easy.

If you want a few fancy initials after your name then i'm afraid it's seven years of pot noodle.

LeeBez

Just re-read my post, a bit negative.

Request product info pack from this company www.tek.kingspan.com to see how homes will be built in the future.

Yes, I work with their products and they perform better than claimed.

Good luck.

LeeBez - I haven't got any info to offer you on how to become an architect, but you are still (relatively ) young and if that's what you want to do, good on you & I hope you go out there & go for it. The very best of luck to you.

We have just got a copy of a book about SIPS, Solidek, it's American sadly but still very informative. I am impressed with a photo of a house with about four huge pine trees fallen on it and that the SIPS house , unlke others around it , suffered no structural damage.

Thanks for all the advice guys - v helpful.

I've emailed a few local Architects asking there advice - and hoping that I can form a few contacts in the industry, and maybe get abit of work experience in an office.
I'm gonna try and find time to do some Architectural work for my portfolio aswell.

I'll keep you informed of how I get on, because I think this is something I really want to do. (just hope I can continue to pay my mortgage!!!!)