AboutPaul S. Brown, AIA Expertise How to work with an Architect. What to expect for design fees. What services are normally
included; what are not included? How do I find an Architect in my area? Why do I need an
Architect? How to be clear about your space needs. Why time must be managed properly.
Experience 24 years involvement in the practice of Architecture, including some teaching experience. Most of my work has been within the employment of various firms, but I have also done some small-scale projects on my own.
Particular interests include Environmental Design, "Green" Design, and Appropriate Technologies. LEED (TM) Accredited Professional.
I have some specific experience with Historic Preservation, Medical Facilities, Commercial Interiors, and Public School projects.
Education: Bachelor of Environmental Design Degree (Architecture), 1978, Miami University in Ohio. I am registered to practice professionally in the states of Massachusetts and Maine.
Question I'm 16 years old going on 17 on July 12, I dropped out of high school on October 7, 2007 due to all the drama going on in my life, I am getting a GED, then I'm going to attend a Community College to take classes required for being an Architect. Could you please let me know what classes are required for earning such a degree? Or how many years at a University it would require? That would be extremely helpful.
My inspiration came to me at about age 5. My grandfather, Paul S. Reinermann jr., was an amazing Architect, and the most amazing person on Earth to me. I would make blueprints by hand from age 5 till now in my free time, also whenever i can.
Thank You for your time.
Answer Hi Allison;
It sounds like you have a good plan going forward. Architecture is a great career. You will need four full years of High School level math and sciences in order to get into a good Architecture program at the University level. Geometry is the math subject that I find myself using the most (and still infrequently doing real raw calculations) on the job. I have less of a need for algebra and only once or twice have I even thought about using the calculus I took in college; but they still want you to take the courses and do well in them to get your degree.
Most university programs in Architecture are 5 years at the undergraduate level. This leads to the degree 'bachelors of Architecture' at an accredited school. I got a 4-year 'bachelors of environmental design' degree in the late 70's. Not having the full 5-year degree made it more difficult for me to get my license to practice.
Many people choose to get a 4-year bachelors of fine arts; and then take Architecture as a 3-year Master's degree program.
Good luck; I hope this helps you chart your path towards following in your grandfather's footsteps; who would be very proud, I am sure!
PS: I am also a former teenager ... hang in there ... I can tell from your writing that you are a smart person and will surely do well in whatever you choose.
