From Architect to Freelance: My Journey in the Built Environment

Architecture is not just a profession, but a calling that requires a blend of creativity, technical knowledge, and an understanding of the community. My path from an architect to a freelance one is a reflection of this journey. Here, I share how I navigated my career, starting from gaining my degree, to building a name for myself, and now offering my services on a freelance basis.

Academic and Professional Foundations

My journey began with obtaining a well-recognized degree in architecture. This academic foundation was crucial as it equipped me with the theoretical knowledge necessary to design and construct buildings with both form and function in mind. The degree was just the starting point, though. I then embarked on gaining extensive experience under the mentorship of established architects, working for a firm for long enough to not only gain registration as an architect but also to master the intricacies of local building codes, construction detailing, and product knowledge. This experience laid the groundwork for my expertise in areas such as building site and contract administration, which are critical for any successful architect.

Successfully Establishing Myself

Once I had the necessary qualifications and experience, I decided to take the next step in my career path by offering my services on a freelance basis. My approach was simple yet effective. I worked for two prominent offices in my local area, where I honed my skills and learned the specific requirements of the local municipality. These offices provided a solid foundation and helped me to understand the building permit process and the expectations of the local authorities.

As I refined my skills and gained recognition, I started advertising my expertise. Rather than sending individual emails, I sent out a collective email BCC’ed to multiple architects, emphasizing my proficiency and the value I could bring to their projects. This strategy helped me to make a name for myself and attracted the attention of a wider network of professionals.

Scaling My Business

With a solid reputation, I was able to raise my hourly fee. But the key to sustaining this increase was ensuring that my clients continued to receive the high quality of service they had come to expect. Over time, I expanded my portfolio and gained more clients, always prioritizing quality over quantity. This approach not only helped me to build a successful freelance career but also to maintain a good relationship with clients who trust my expertise.

Today, I offer my services to architects and other professionals in my jurisdiction on a short-term contract or freelance basis. My diverse experience and deep understanding of local building codes, alongside my ability to work quickly and accurately, make me a valuable asset in the field of architecture. Clients appreciate the quality of my work, and I continue to adapt to the evolving needs of the industry.

My journey from an architect to a freelance one is a testament to the value of experience, perseverance, and a strong professional network. If you are considering a similar path, the key is to build a solid foundation, make a name for yourself, and always strive for excellence in your work.