Architectural Project Manager

Re: large/tall buildings. How does an architect approach a project in a more earthquake-prone area differently than one in a safer area? What are the primary structural differences? Put another way, how do tall buildings even exist in California?

Asked by Go Bolts! over 11 years ago

As I alluded to in my prior post about earthquake-proofing buildings this isn't really an area of expertise for me. We don't get much seismic activity in Texas.

Will the Leaning Tower of Pisa ever fall? Do architects of today look at it as a thing of beauty, or a glaring example of poor design and construction?

Asked by J3r3my over 11 years ago

My understanding is that it has been stabilized where it *should* not fall down. However I believe that people are no longer allowed to go in it. I think it's a great building and an interesting lesson in engineering.

When you draw up plans for a house, how long should it last before developing structural problems? Like, if it started showing stress faults after 100 years, would that be the architect's fault, or...do houses just get old and fall apart?

Asked by goldieRR over 11 years ago

It really just depends on the house was built. Unfortunately since most houses in the US are built with wood they generally do have an expected life span. Of course, if built well and maintained a wood frame house can last virtually forever.

If you quote a client a dollar-figure but find that you're running way over budget, are you contractually bound to do the work anyway, even at a loss?

Asked by essex over 11 years ago

Usually we try to work into our proposals a little bit of wiggle room in case there are unforeseen changes or items that could not be anticipated. We strive to stand by any fixed-fee quote we give unless the client has initiated changes above and beyond the normal scope of the design process. In those cases we inform the client of additional services and get their approval for fee increases before proceeding with the work.

Will architects be needed in the future? Aren't we moving toward an era where we'll be able to do model everything digitally?

Asked by JOE about 11 years ago

I'm a junior in high school and I don't know what I want to major in. I like to meet new people and travel. I am good at managing and designing. I want a job where I can manage a design team and a job that pays well. What would you suggest?

Asked by Nitroen over 9 years ago