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What kind of architect builds HUGE buildings? like commercial, industrial, ect..?

i've always been very interested in architecture, (in high school at the moment) but the type that really interests me, are the buildings that are almost epic in scale. i really love to see the modern marvels of the world and its pretty much my life goal to build one. my question is who does type of thing?.. i know i want to be either an architect of engineer.

Public Comments

1. Generally it is a large firm employing many architects that builds the really large projects. They use project manager architects with experience on other projects to head these large projects. The architects send their drawings to the civil and structural engineers to work in conjunction with them on HVAC and structure required to hold up their designs
2. Structural - And what matters is you....If you get with a great firm and build your reputation....you will be one of the great builders! Good luck! (It also helps to have a great Secretary that can make you seem GREAT!) ;-P
3. I have not been to architecture school, so take this advice with a grain of salt. I do not believe there are different architecture schools or degrees for small verses large buildings. I would assume that either size can be epic, it depends more on the design, the budget, the details, etc. Even if your first job landed you working on small projects, this will not inhibit your ability to later work on larger projects. I would suggest looking in to a school of architecture that you think you would enjoy attending based on the campus, staff, location, price, reputation and begin application there. Make sure that you have met all the requirements for entering the program (if you attend a college prep high school I don't think this will be an issue). It is possible that within the school of architecture you can declare a focus in your final years in the program. This may be how to distinguish that you would like to work on larger projects rather than residential. However, in the end, your degree will likely be exactly the same as your friend who chose to focus on residential architecture. That's OK, it means you are qualified for an entry level job anywhere, but you likely feel more qualified for an entry level job with a firm that deals more with commercial or industrial projects. Maybe the best advice would be to interview one or two principal architects at firms near where you live this summer. I'm sure they would be happy to talk with you over lunch or something. Most professionals love to encourage young students interested in their line of work. I know I am! If you love design, and art, and form, and creating, and problem solving then architecture may be a very close fit for your interests. If you enjoy design, technical drawing, problem solving, math, and science, then structural engineering may be your forte. Although, the way you expressed your interests in your question it sounds more like you would enjoy architecture. Even after school and after working on smaller projects and after taking your many difficult exams to obtain your license it may still be a while (years) before you land that perfect epic structure... but keep after it. With your mind set on a goal the time may just fly by. Enjoy school, do it with the focus that each class takes you closer to the ability to do design in the industry and live out your dream!