Architecture is one of those fields that include a wide variety of career options, owing to the several topics that fall under its domain. Architects work on scales starting from a small room in a house to an entire city. They design, develop, present, and supervise all sorts of projects. Their knowledge, design skills, and artistic sense make them capable of approaching other paths like graphic design, product design, or even game design.

• Residential Architect

Residential architects are design professionals who specialize in the design and construction of residential buildings, such as individual homes and condominiums. Residential architects are concerned with the aesthetic of a residential building as well as its functionality. A residential architect is concerned with much more than the aesthetic of a home. Residential architects need to take into account zoning laws, environmental factors, and the structural stability of the building. They also need to design the electrical, plumbing, heating and cooling components of the building.

The commercial architects prepare designs and conditions for commercial buildings like offices, factories, retail outlets, shopping malls, rail, air terminals, hospitals, and hotels etc. They do not design single-occupancy houses, which are the engagement of residential architects. The architects prepare and perform initial proposals, typically in the style of a sketch design. Commercial architects typically work in offices, developing building plans and consulting with clients; however, they often visit building sites to monitor construction progress. Some architects work for architecture or building construction firms, while others are self-employed. Commercial architects may also provide other post-construction services, such as ensuring that workers are paid and that buildings are tested and inspected.

An interior designer is someone who works with a client to create aesthetic rooms and spaces. Clients range from homeowners to large corporations. The spaces and rooms interior designers create are equally varied, ranging from simple indoor and outdoor home environments to hotel lobbies and lavish mansions. No matter the size, every interior designer works to create spaces that are attractive yet functional. Spaces must also be safe while meeting the specific needs of the client.

An interior designer is typically an independent contractor who must build a client base. In some instances, a designer will work for a larger firm. In either case, he or she must excel in order to build a positive reputation in the industry and secure future work.

Green architects combine their knowledge of architectural theory and design with the use of sustainable building materials and methods to design buildings and facilities that minimize negative effects on the environment. They may utilize renewable and non-toxic resources during construction and equip their building projects with unique methods of waste management, water conservation, energy efficiency, and self-sustainability.

Just like traditional architects, green architects often have to work well with clients and can work long hours when facing tight deadlines. Many work for architectural firms, while some are self-employed. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that demand for architects with 'green' design experience will be strong over the coming decade.

Landscape architects design attractive and functional public parks, gardens, playgrounds, residential areas, college campuses, and public spaces. They also plan the locations of buildings, roads, walkways, flowers, shrubs, and trees within these environments. Landscape architects design these areas so that they are not only easy to use but also harmonious with the natural environment.

Landscape architects use various technologies in their work. For example, using CADD software, landscape architects prepare models of their proposed work. They present these models to clients for feedback and then prepare the final look of the project. Many landscape architects also use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) which offer GPS coordinates of different geographical features. This helps landscape architects design different environments by providing clues on where to start planning and how to anticipate future effects of the landscape, such as rainfall running into a valley.

The goals of landscape architects are to enhance the natural beauty of a space and provide environmental benefits. They may plan the restoration of natural places that were changed by humans or nature, such as wetlands, streams, and mined areas. They may also design "green roofs" or rooftop gardens that can retain storm water, absorb air pollution, and cool buildings while also providing pleasant scenery.

Urban planners and urban designers work to develop cities. Urban planners work closely with public and governmental officials to plan and execute new development plans. Urban designers, on the other hand, focus on creating the beautiful architecture and landscapes of public spaces. Both attempt to make cities more attractive and functional, but there are subtitle differences between them to be aware of. Urban planners often begin by speaking to the public and gathering market research data on what exactly the community wants and needs. They then work with public officials and land developers to create a plan to develop buildings and parks that can be enjoyed by everyone. Part of the planning is deciding on if the idea is possible, which can be done by actually going into the field and reviewing the proposed site. The goal of urban planners is to assess public spaces such as parks, homeless shelters, and areas that might attract new businesses.

Industrial designers develop concepts and designs for manufactured products. They typically specialize in one product category, such as automobiles, furniture or housewares. They must be imaginative and persistent to communicate their ideas about new product design. Industrial designers are responsible for the look of many of the products bought, used and consumed every day. It is the job of an industrial designer to create, plan and style manufactured goods, including automobiles, household products, food packaging, consumer electronics and medical equipment.

An industrial designer considers the usability, ergonomics and aesthetics of common mass-produced items and works to improve the design function, engineering and marketing of these items. Industrial designers are responsible for the familiar look of brands and products like Jeep, iPods and the Coke bottle.