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Growing opportunities in architecture in India

With India growing rapidly and ranked among the top 5 economies in the world, the demand for infrastructure including residential spaces, commercial spaces and public infrastructure is growing tremendously. With India becoming the world’s most populous nation, and our youth getting educated, our cities are estimated to grow in size and smaller towns are expected to expand rapidly to become tier 2 cities. Managing this demands a professional approach, serious planning and efficient execution - a synergy that ensures quality of life, environmental sustainability, and tolerance for future growth. And it’s here that architects come into the picture.

The role of an architec

An architect is an engineer and an artist rolled into one. He/ she conceives the design considering aspects of liveability, aesthetics, safety, compliance, structural strength, materials and environmental sustainability. An architect is a catalyst who transforms the client’s vision taking into consideration the approach to construction, materials, technical aspects, functional aspects and budget. He/she offers practical, feasible solutions that are lasting and deliver the functionality expected.

Strengths and skills

As mentioned, a career in architecture is a blend of art and science and this is a great profession for those who have an aptitude in this space. Students will be trained on every aspect of bringing a project to life – from site analysis, conceptualisation, design, approach and budgeting. They will also understand the deployment of newer construction techniques, materials and how to build environmentally sustainable structures.

An architect can add tremendous value in terms of functionality, optimisation of natural resources – air and light, and enhance functionality while ensuring the project is on schedule budget. The architect also considers the weather conditions, altitude, and site conditions before deciding on the approach to the structure.

Opportunities in India

As discussed, Indian cities are expanding rapidly considering the amount of migration from rural areas in search of better opportunities and amenities. This is driving a huge demand for housing and social infrastructure. Large cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai, and Delhi are getting decentralised and localities are becoming self-contained towns in themselves which means each of these zones need homes, shopping centres, parks, public amenities, parking facilities and more. As cities grow, also needed would be commercial spaces, factories, sports arenas and of course public transport networks, flyovers, bridges and more. All of these need architects.

There are several large companies like L&T and GMR who are executing large scale infra projects across India for the government - flyovers, bridges, airports, highways etc. the role of architects is pivotal to these projects. Then are the hundreds of builders and developers across India building thousands of homes and offices. These need architects too. Several medium and large architectural firms, consultants and advisors are associated with these projects and fresh architects can get a job in such organisations. Usually architects work in such firms for a few years, gain experience and then go on to begin their own firms or become consultants to larger projects.

So, considering the potential for India and the volume of construction happening in the region, architects can look forward to promising careers that are challenging, fulfilling and remunerative. Just go build!