OPA

Defining Expectations from your Structural Engineer: A Guide for Project Architects

Expectations / By

In preparation for a recent project, I was carefully reviewing the structural consultant’s proposal to confirm their understanding of our project scope and to align expectations for coordination and documentation. It struck me that although I have successfully coordinated several large-scale projects with structural consultants, I had never paused to fully understand precisely what their …

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How Mentorship Shapes Project Architects: A Guide for New Pros

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No architect succeeds alone. Behind every great architect is someone who learned, struggled, and grew under the guidance of mentors who provided insight, encouragement, and the confidence needed to excel in the field. Whether through structured programs or informal relationships, mentorship is an invaluable investment in your future and career, shaping both personal growth and …

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The Power of Decisiveness as a Project Architect

PA Qualities / By

Ever been in that moment where you’re stuck between choices, weighing every possibility, and unable to move forward? As a project architect, hesitation can slow progress, affect results, and impact team morale. Decisiveness isn’t just about making choices—it’s about making them with confidence and a clear sense of direction. It’s a trait that strong leaders …

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Navigating Team Dynamics as a Project Architect

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As a senior project architect in a large design-first firm, I’ve seen how team dynamics shape the design process. Decisions in a large firm rarely come from one person. Instead, they evolve through input from everyone on the team—from partners to junior team members—each bringing their own perspectives and expertise. While this collaboration strengthens the …

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The Importance of Project Planning: for Project Success

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Planning isn’t just a task—it’s the foundation for clarity and direction. In architecture, where creativity meets specificity, planning is essential. It sets clear, specific goals and milestones, providing a structured roadmap to guide every phase of a project. Without a solid plan, even the best intentions can drift off course. No matter the size or …

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Building Value: How Efficiency & Productivity Shape Pay in Architecture

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In the dynamic and competitive world of architecture, being an employee at a large firm for close to 20 years has given me unique insight into the intersection of passion and practicality. Architecture is more than a profession; it’s a calling that merges creativity and technical expertise to shape the built environment. Yet, despite its …

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How to Develop Good Judgment as a Project Architect: Key Qualities for Success

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Whether leading your own team or guiding a construction crew on-site as the project architect, you’re often faced with making difficult decisions based on incomplete information. This comes with the role and is to be expected. Through years of experience, I’ve built confidence in my decisions, allowing me to assess situations more clearly and make …

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