An industrial architect usually specializes in a specific category of products, such as housewares, furniture or automobiles. They need to be both persistent and creative in order to offer up their ideas on the design of new products. Here, you will learn more about what industrial architects do on a daily basis.
The industrial architect is the person responsible for the feel and the look of many products that we use every day. It is their job to plan, create and style all types of goods, such as those we mentioned above, as well as medical equipment, consumer electronics and food packages. Industrial architects have to take into consideration the ergonomics, looks and function of the items they design, and they work to improve their engineering and marketability. They're responsible for the iconic looks of items we use every day, such as Coke bottles.
Industrial designers work in conjunction with other specialists, such as engineers, marketers and materials scientists. When starting a project, the industrial architect usually meets with the client and advises the planning team as to how the product can be improved, or how a new product should be introduced. The industrial architect also works with the marketing research department to assess the product's performance requirements, and then tweaks the product's appearance.
After that, the architect will sketch out several design ideas and present them to the client. When the client makes a selection, the architect gets to work on computer renderings (done with the aid of a CAD program), and quite often they create 3D models so the client can get an idea of what the final product will look like. When the client approves the final design, the project is handed over to the engineers for manufacturing.
To be an industrial architect, you will need at least a bachelor's degree in industrial architecture, design, or engineering. It is also beneficial to have a completed work portfolio and internship. According to the United States Department of Labor's statistics, many industrial architects earn a master's degree for business administration because the industry is placing greater emphasis on products that mesh with the client's business plan. An industrial architect with good quality assurance, marketing, planning and accounting skills will be more of an asset to their employer.
Industrial architecture is a combination of engineering and art; having creativity, drawing skill and technical knowledge are key. The industrial architect should have a sense of balance, proportion and color, and they must also have good verbal, visual and written communication skills.