Architects and Structural Engineers: How They Work Together

Architects and Structural Engineers: How They Work Together

When it comes to designing and building structures, architects and structural engineers work hand in hand, playing a key role in ensuring that everything is done correctly. But how exactly do structural engineers and architects work together, and what are the benefits of having them collaborate closely on projects?

Meet Our Featured Architects and Structural Engineers

Architects and Structural Engineers

Collaboration between architects and structural engineers involves checks and balances. Architects' creativity needs grounding in practicality while ensuring that engineering considerations do not hinder architectural innovation. At Schemmer, architects and structural engineers work side by side to deliver high-quality results for their clients. This collaborative approach sets Schemmer apart from other architecture and engineering firms in the industry.

It's All About Balance

Despite challenges such as balancing creativity with practicality, the collaboration between architects and structural engineers is crucial for successful building design projects. Both parties bring the unique expertise necessary for building project completion.

As Architect Reese Scarborough puts it: "The architect might be the shell of the race car that has all the emblems on it, or it might be the driver that might be the project manager, but the structural engineers are the engine and frame. Without that, it wouldn't hold up."

Working As A Team

Architects and Structural Engineers: Working as A TeamIt's essential to note that successful architects tend to have a good understanding of technical engineering concepts. They can apply these concepts creatively to their architectural drawings while still keeping them practical. On the other hand, engineers who think outside the box tend to thrive better than those who stick strictly to technical specifications.

An example of the two teams working together may involve a design having large windows. The architect designs those windows based on a client's vision, but the structural engineer needs to review the structural implications of that window. For example, is the header above it sized correctly? If it’s a shear wall, can it support that large of an opening?

How does this benefit clients?

Having everyone under one roof means there's no confusion about who is responsible for what. Plus, as Structural Engineer Kevin Wenninghoff points out, "the biggest difference in my mind is that, under our format, the whole team from top to bottom is much more client-focused."

This emphasis on collaboration also leads to greater efficiency. Architect Dan Kerns explains, "There's a level of efficiency that's garnered when you're all swimming in the same water." Having everyone working towards a common goal means there are fewer communication breakdowns or delays caused by waiting for input from other parties.

But perhaps most importantly, this kind of teamwork allows for better problem-solving. Architect Kelsey Fleenor says, "There's just that level of transparency and teamwork." When everyone knows what everyone else is doing (and why), it becomes easier to identify potential issues before they become major problems.

Architects and Structural Engineers: Working Together

Collaboration between architects and structural engineers is crucial for successful building design projects. Despite challenges such as balancing creativity with practicality, both parties bring unique expertise necessary for project completion.

Lastly, we should acknowledge the passion these professionals have for their work—the satisfaction derived from completing projects without major issues or seeing a project come alive from teamwork; solving different puzzles every day; being creative; maintaining relationships with clients; taking clients' dreams into reality—these are what drive these professionals daily towards excellence in their fields.

SCHEMMER - DESIGN WITH PURPOSE. BUILD WITH CONFIDENCE.

Schemmer is a full-service architecture, engineering and construction field services consultant, providing responsible solutions for complex design and construction-related challenges.

Founded in 1959, we are grounded in our past but remain fully committed to the future. Located in five states and nine offices throughout the Midwest, Schemmer is providing services to clients from coast-to-coast and border-to-border across the United States.

Schemmer's services include:

Contact Us Today!