As we can see, creating rich user experiences is more than just having beautiful designs on your website or apps. It’s about giving people ways to connect with each other, to learn more about themselves, and to feel good when they use your product.

This article will talk about one of the most important parts of designing great UX – architecture. The term ‘architecture’ refers to the general structure or framework of something. In this case, it’s referring to the fundamental structures of engaging content, navigation tools, and features in someone’s smartphone app.

We’ll go into much greater detail about how to design strong architectural frameworks for different types of applications later in this article. For now, though, let's look at some examples of poor mobile interface architectures and why they're not very effective.

History of architecture

Like any other field, there are many different types of architects. Some focus on designing skyscrapers, while others design houses or even landscapes!

Architects in early civilizations built mostly for their rulers or deities as structures were used to show off power. This is what we now call sacred architecture.

Landscape architects make outdoor environments that promote health and relaxation, while urban planners help create cities that nurture community growth.

There are also social architects who work with communities to strengthen relationships and inspire hope. They may plan large-scale projects like hospitals or universities, or small scale things like creating an afterschool program or starting a gardening club at the mall.

Then there are art architects, who combine building designs with painting or sculpture. A famous example is the Chrysler Building, which has sculptures depicting animals and plants all around it.

And finally, “functional” architects design buildings for specific uses. These include offices, shopping centers, schools, and more.

All these fields require similar skills and fundamentals, such as mathematics, science, drawing, and creative thinking. But no matter what kind of architect you want to be, one thing is always important – a sense of aesthetics.

You can learn much about this by looking into the history of architecture. Starting from ancient times up until today, we will go through some significant styles, and see why they have survived time.

Definition of an architect

An architect is someone who designs buildings or landscapes, or both. They are also called a designer or builder. However, there is some controversy about what exactly that term means.

Some say that only people with at least a bachelor’s degree in architecture can be considered architects, while others believe anyone with creativity and understanding of basic concepts like space, proportion, and balance is an architect.

This article uses the first definition, but we will add the “architectural engineer” to our list below. That way you can call us both! 😉

However, it is important to note that not all architects have a degree. Some may earn their license through informal education (for example, taking classes via online courses) or by producing work they feel embodies the importance of the profession.

In either case, they must be able to design things using principles of good construction as well as understand spatial relationships. This could mean creating floor plans, furniture layouts, or both.

Engineering basics

Architecture students typically learn about engineering before moving onto more artistic topics. These fundamental skills apply to practicing as an architectural professional, whether you choose to become licensed or not.

For instance, engineers need to know about physics, math, and geometry- such as measuring angles, areas, and volumes. They are also familiar with how materials interact when building something new, and how to use appropriate tools for effective production.

What does an architect do?

That is probably one of the most asked questions about what architects actually do! Luckily, we have some pretty clear answers. An architectural professional designs, develops, and shapes spaces, buildings, or landscapes to meet our community’s needs and expectations.

We also work with other professionals in various fields (landscape designers, interior decorators, engineers, etc) to make sure everything fits together properly and that things function correctly for how they are used.

This can be done at any scale — from designing the layout and floor plan of a building to planning and developing a space within a house or office setting, to creating and engineering technology for use in manufacturing or production processes.

It is very important to note that not every design element has to be “architectural” as such. A lot of times, people forget that architecture includes shaping nature and natural environments.

For example, if you owned a beach then your main focus would likely be investing in good sunblock and towels, right? Well, whether it is a pool, private beach, or both, making sure there are adequate numbers of both will definitely shape the environment.

And speaking of investment, investing in top quality equipment and materials can help create rich, aesthetically pleasing surroundings.

How to become an architect

Being an Architect is not like majoring in other professional fields. You will not get certified after college, nor will you be paid as well being an architect. It takes years of education and practice for people with this career path to emerge.

However, there are some things that make up the architecture profession, which can help you develop your skills and understand what it really means to be an architect.

Architects must have at least a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school of architecture. Beyond that, experience is very important!

Practicing architects need to keep themselves updated with current trends in the field so that they know what tools are needed to succeed. Many firms hire freelancers or retain employees directly, so having a good working relationship with others is helpful.

As professionals, we strive to create spaces and environments that people feel comfortable in and want to use again and again.

Finding the right architect

As with any professional career, there are different levels of architects. You can be an entry level designer who works under an architect or a project manager that oversees construction for a building being designed by someone else.

This may sound vague, but it’s important to understand what each position entails before you choose whether or not to become involved in the architecture profession.

Some people have a passion for designing buildings so they went into this field as professionals. They work independently creating designs while still keeping in touch with other designers.

Other professionals are always looking to team up with others, which is why having a degree or certification as an architect is very helpful.

Architecture is a constantly changing field, so even if you aren’t quite ready to start working alone, you shouldn’t fear about getting left behind. There are many ways to learn more about how architects do their job.

You could research practices in your area and see what kind of projects they completed, or you could look at design books and study concepts and formulas used for architectural drawings.

There are plenty of resources available online and through your local university.

Tips for choosing an architect

When looking to hire an architect, you should make sure they have at least a portfolio that includes completed projects. It is also important to ask about their process as well as how many clients they have worked with before.

As you begin your search, there are several things you need to consider. First, like any other profession, not every architect has a degree or certification. Becoming licensed in architecture is tough unless you already have a bachelor’s degree in art, design, or engineering.

However, being certified by The National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) can help set apart an architect from others. An NCARB credential holder must go through extensive training to be able to use the NCRA logo which represents professional architects.

Designing a home based on your preferences

When it comes to designing your house, or even just choosing an interior style, there is one thing that can get in the way of what you want to be. This may sound silly but I will give you some examples.

The most common cause of this is when other people tell you how their house or room looks. They might say something like “My friend has such nice furniture” or “I love the color green so my bedroom is painted that blue-green.”

These types of comments can influence you into thinking that whatever look they have is better than yours. It is important to remember that you get to choose what styles are fashionable now, not everyone else!

You should always strive to learn about different design styles, but never because someone told you before. For example, if someone says that their apartment looks like The Jetsons then maybe try to find out more details about the show to see why it inspired them.

It could be for the gadgets, the futuristic feel, or perhaps the colors used. A lot of designers use bright, bold colors as part of their style so it would make sense they took inspiration from The Jetson’s creator George Lucas who was known for using vibrant shades.

Designing a home based on your budget

A design that is express will not cost a large amount of money to create. Because it is designed from the ground up, there are few limitations as to what you can do with this style.

This type of house styling is perfect for people who feel they don’t have much money but want a beautiful house that expresses their personality. This includes having lots of decorations and unique features such as patterned rugs or furniture.

There are some things, however, that may be expensive to include in an express house. These include very extravagant interior designs or perhaps even a pool!

Budget express houses typically only feature natural materials like stone or wood which are more affordable than manufactured goods. They also limit decoration to plants and maybe a picture here and there.

These types of homes keep costs down by limiting the amount spent. However, they lack true expression due to the dull look they give off.