Architect vs Civil Engineer – Difference and Comparison

Who is Architect?

The Greek roots of the word architect, arkhi- (chief) + tekton (builder), translate to “chief builder.” The artisan who designed a structure and the one who built it were the same for a large portion of history. Buildings could then be planned considerably more thoroughly before being built because of the invention of linear-perspective drawing, which made it possible to correctly depict three-dimensional structures in two dimensions, starting in the 1500s.

Through real-world and historical examples that could serve as a starting point for iteratively exploring novel solutions for uncommon events and concepts, they also learn how to assess several answers to a problem objectively.

A person with professional training in architecture plans and designs projects and frequently participates actively in their construction. They become experts in both the art and science of architecture and design. Architects need a professional license because they oversee ensuring the security of the residents of their structures.

The primary purpose of the architect is to create designs, quality standards, and construction documents while supervising and developing projects from conception to completion, following local zoning regulations. Furthermore, conceptualize and document commercial and industrial building projects and collaborate with clients to fully grasp their requirements and Keep track of and arrange permission forms.

Collaborate with teams from remote business divisions, work with contractors, and come up with creative, workable solutions to challenging design problems and updated elevations and plans to satisfy client and sales requirements

Who is Civil Engineer?

A specialized civil engineer plans, designs, oversees, builds, and maintains significant public works projects or manages building construction. Roads, bridges, tunnels, railway lines, harbors, airports, pipelines, sewage, water treatment systems, and buildings are a few projects they work on. To study the potential environmental effects of a project before determining whether to move forward with it, they may also participate in environmental impact studies of large projects.

Since the origin of the human race, engineering has been a part of life. When people began to give up their nomadic lifestyles, and the necessity for shelter arose between 4000 and 2000 BC in Mesopotamia (ancient Iraq), ancient Egypt, and the Indus Valley civilization, civil engineering may have been practiced for the first time.

The importance of transportation increased throughout this period, which prompted the invention of the wheel and sails. In collaboration with other experts like architects and urban planners, civil engineers ensure that the built environment satisfies the demands of the neighborhood. Civil engineers work primarily in a range of settings.

 A substantial component of a civil engineer’s job involves dealing with non-engineers or individuals from other technical disciplines.

Difference Between Architect and Civil Engineer

Both professions are involved in the planning and construction of buildings. However, there are some essential differences between the two. For example, an architect has a degree in architecture, while a civil engineer will have a degree in civil engineering.

Civil engineers are more project-oriented and emphasize the practical side. Architects concentrate on projects that require greater artistic and creative thought.

Both work in the building industry and hold four-year degrees. Architects focus on design, while civil engineers focus on construction. Architects create the look and feel of a building, while civil engineers make sure the building can stand up structurally.

An architect is responsible for the project’s aesthetic appeal, safety, and functionality. They plan and design every component of the construction. The core skill of a civil engineer in the building sector is the design, construction, and maintenance of public infrastructure.

Comparison Between Architect and Civil Engineer

Parameter of ComparisonArchitectCivil Engineer  
Courses and qualificationsFive-year undergraduate architecture (B. Arch) programCivil Engineering degree or diploma
Specialized areas  Designing the structureCreate infrastructure
Areas of concern  Structure’s form, color, and space designconstruction work done by civil engineers  
Regulatory areaConstruction project’s designPutting the architect’s vision into practice  

References

  1. https://www.um.edu.mt/library/oar/handle/123456789/79723
  2. https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/proceedings-of-the-design-society/article/on-inclusion-diversity-equity-and-accessibility-in-civil-engineering-and-architectural-design-a-review-of-assessment-tools/2695CB98D671952C1DA348F94CFDCEC4