What is the Difference Between Architecture and Architectural Engineering? A Simple Guide

Both architecture and architectural engineering play a key role in the creation of buildings from scratch. It is to be kept in mind that there are fundamental differences between architecture and architectural engineering. Architecture can be defined as the elegant combination of art and science of designing and erecting buildings. An architect should be skilled in construction methods and materials in order to work successfully. Architecture essentially focuses on designing a building and architectural engineering combines different aspects of building design and construction including electrical, mechanical, calculations, and structural drawings. Architectural engineering uses much more technology than architecture and the main focus of architecture is on aesthetic design, functional design and spatial design.

High Quality Work Delivered by Architectural Design Firms

· The list of common architecture services includes site evaluation, site analysis, site development, structural design, sanitary design, plumbing design, sewerage design, and water supply design.

· Architecture engineering services comprise civil engineering, structural engineering, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, project management and vendor coordination.

· Architecture for residential mainly focuses on developing stylish as well as functional homes. Architecture design service is well versed in 3D concept design, 3D interior design, 3D exterior design, modern interior design, furniture product design, landscape design, architectural layout plans, retail space planning, bridge plan design, and building model design.

· Architectural design firm is immensely popular because it provides high quality work at low costs.

Focal Areas of Residential Architecture

The practice of designing buildings that are specifically suited to a commercial or business environment is called as commercial architecture. Residential architecture focuses on apartments, condos, single family homes, remodels and other similar projects. A typical residential architect approaches heating, ventilation and air conditioning differently than other architects. Structural engineering firm provides different services like architectural designing services, structural designs, industrial structural design services, industrial engineering service and steel structure designing.

Architecture and engineering firms of today are committed to make the vision of clients into a reality. Companies providing architectural and engineering are master experts in creating projects tailored to the unique environment of their clients. A conventional architecture engineer is guided by the engineering principles in the construction, planning, and design of buildings. Architectural engineering makes use of much more technology than architecture and architecture is rooted in artistic expression. Architectural engineers give importance to structural integrity of buildings, design and analysis of HVAC systems, design of plumbing systems, design of electrical systems, acoustic planning, lighting issues and energy conservation issues.

· The ultimate focus of architecture is on the spatial design of building and whether it meets the demand of users.

· The list of different architecture types include landscape, healthcare, government, residential, educational and commercial architecture.

· Architectural engineering can be considered as an extension of architecture and the architecture makes use of spatial planning to produce drawings evaluated by a team of qualified architectural engineers.

· Some architecture firms are architectural engineering firms too and the very big difference between architecture and architectural engineering is the creative process.

· Urban housing, rural housing, railways, hospitals, commercial complexes, highways, ports and industrial complexes make use of architecture.

Architecture takes care of the look and style of a building and architectural engineers ensure that the design is sturdy for people who will occupy the building. Designing an attractive building requires both architecture and architectural engineering and architecture design structures include houses, factories, office buildings and shopping malls. An architect designs the interior and exterior layout of the building and the job of an architect needs much more than creativity. Many architects specialize in a subfield like landscape design, interior design, structural engineering, and MEP (Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing) systems. Architectural engineers work with architects and it has been pointed out that architectural engineers are first and foremost engineers.

· Job responsibilities of an architectural engineer include designing the mechanical systems, figuring where the load bearing walls go and laying out the electrical as well as lighting systems.

· Architects fall on the creative side and architectural engineers fall on the technical and mechanical side.

· Although architects and architectural engineers perform similar functions, there are differences between the two.

· The major distinction between architects and architectural engineers is that architects and engineers approach projects from different perspectives.

· An architect is blessed with creativity and the ability to think theoretically whereas engineers are equipped with a mathematical mindset.

· There is a clear relationship between personality traits and work duties of an architect and architectural engineers.

An architect takes care of designing and constructing the form, space and ambiance of buildings. Architectural engineering team ensures that the design will work by applying scientific principles. Architects need to work within budgets for material and construction of costs. Architectural engineers will take into account budgets for material and construction costs when evaluating the specifications of a project. Both architects and architectural engineers serve project management roles within their area of focus. Architectural engineers and architects serve as liaisons between design teams and clients in the development of buildings.