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 Hi there .. my son is in the 11th grade and has (what I believe to be) an incredible talent at being able to look at a small picture and redraw it to a much larger scale. We were contemplating the thought of turning this talent into a career. Where should we start? I saw your answer about the difference between an architect and a draftsman. So do you think one starts as a draftsman and works their way up to architect or are they entirely different jobs? We are thinking of putting him into a intro course at the community college (and have contacted them for advise) but was interested in what you would have to say as well.
Thanks!
Answer Yes, it sounds like he would do well in a community college course in drafting, or any drawing courses in either the Art department or the Graphic Design department. It sounds like a great idea to take that raw talent and encourage it and let it flourish into a career. If he is particularly interested in buildings, then architecture is a good choice. If he is more interested in art in general, then you might consider graphic design.
My advice would be to keep him working in freehand as long as possible, and keep him away from the computers for a while. Best to develop the basic skills first.
Good Luck,
PB
