Architecture is evolving at a fast pace, and with it comes the responsibility to create more efficient and sustainable building solutions. Architects must have an excellent grasp of their field and stay abreast with the rising trends that could reshape the future of the built environment. Ongoing education in the form of CPD is crucial for the career growth of architects. With that said, here are CPD ideas every architect should consider.
What is CPD for Architects
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) helps architects improve their existing skills and workplace competency while keeping them up to date with new technologies and developments in the industry. Architects are required to complete a specific number of CPD points (35 in the UK) to maintain an active membership within their professional institution.
Architecture CPD comes in three forms: structured, reflective, and self-directed. The learning activities are varied but typically include training, seminars, workshops, short courses, and online classes. Architects can also earn CPD points by training other people, making technical reports, reading architectural literature, or researching new methods.
Passive House Architecture
The Passive House design entails energy efficiency, affordability, and sustainability. It uses superinsulation, advanced window technology, airtightness, and efficient ventilation to always provide the occupants with clean air and the appropriate temperature. The Passive House method is known for promoting utmost comfort and healthy living conditions. But its most commendable characteristic is it reduces electrical and natural gas consumption to a significant level, thus helping cut carbon emissions.
According to Passipedia, there are around 60,000 Passive House buildings worldwide as of 2016. However, the number is rapidly growing as the design continues to gain popularity there are more Passive House architects in the UK popping up.
Working at Heights – Health and Safety Training for Architects
Architects should prioritize health and safety when designing buildings, whether it’s ensuring that fire exits meet regulatory standards or choosing non-hazardous materials. But this is not the only reason they should undergo construction work health and safety training. Working at construction sites is inherently dangerous and one that many architects will have to deal with at least once in their lives.
According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), falls from heights remain the top cause of fatalities in the construction industry. A safety course on working at heights may not wholly eliminate the incidents; however, it will undoubtedly help mitigate the risks. Architects are responsible for protecting not only themselves but also those who work with them.
Learning about Listed Building Compliance
Carrying out work on listed buildings can be tremendously challenging. Whether it is restoring, retrofitting, or extending a listed structure, architects must be careful not to damage the character and original fabric of the property. To achieve this, they must have a deep understanding of the nature and significance of the listed building. Additionally, they must possess sufficient knowledge about the laws that protect historic structures. How do you get consent or permission to carry out work on a listed property? Should historic buildings have disabled access? Should they comply with energy-efficiency laws? A training on listed building compliance will answer these questions.
Mentoring New Colleagues
Mentoring is a powerful tool that many industries consider an effective strategy to support learning and development in the workplace. Apart from helping new employees learn the ropes of the industry, mentoring creates a career growth path for the senior staff, especially those eyeing leadership positions. It also enables the mentors to refresh their knowledge and brush up on their abilities. Moreover, when experienced architects pass their expertise to their colleagues, it prevents the loss of vital skills, ensuring that valuable information stays with the organisation even when the key individuals leave.
