At their core, both architecture and civil engineering are about buildings. But what are the differences between these two disciplines? Read on to find out and learn some interesting facts about architecture and civil engineering.
What Is Architecture?
Architecture is the art and technique of designing buildings and structures.
With a history that dates back to the Neolithic period (10,000 BC), when humans left caves to live in artificial structures, architecture is almost as old as human civilization itself.
Nowadays, architects aim to create environments that integrate harmoniously with people’s way of life. Some of the duties of an architect include
- Designing buildings, structures, and spaces
- Developing plans
- Consulting with engineers
- Reviewing the progress of projects
- Visiting construction sites
- Meeting with clients
What Is Civil Engineering?
Civil engineering, for its part, is the profession focused on designing, building, and maintaining infrastructure works that serve the general public.
The first examples of civil engineering can be traced back to the period between 4,000 BC and 2,000 BC, when the Egyptians and Mesopotamians created imposing monuments, some of which are still standing.
Although built at a later date, Roman bridges are another brilliant example of civil engineering in ancient times.
Some examples of civil engineering works include airports, bridges, subways, railways, and dams.
Some of the activities commonly carried out by a civil engineer include:
- Developing civil engineering designs
- Review compliance with government regulations
- Providing estimates for projects
- Feasibility assessments
- Site inspections
- Analyzing data
Architecture vs. Civil Engineering: What Is the Difference?
As you can see, architecture and civil engineering share some characteristics. For example both architects and engineers have to visit construction sites and review the progress of their projects.
However, there are some key differences between architecture and engineering design:
- From a historical standpoint, architecture started earlier than civil engineering
- Civil engineering encompasses a broad spectrum of projects (dams, subways, bridges, etc.), while architecture focuses on buildings
- Architecture is more concerned with aesthetics, while civil engineering’s main goal is functionality.
- In practice, this means that an architect will work mainly on the look and feel of a building, while civil engineers will be in charge of executing the project, finding suitable materials, and making all the necessary modifications to ensure that the project is safe and compliant with all applicable regulations
About Darnell Technical
Darnell Technical Services is an engineering design firm with extensive experience in a vast array of projects. Our headquarters are located in Santa Ana, California, and we have an office in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Contact us today by telephone (714-285-0082 (CA), 702-945-2899 (NV)) or through our social media accounts on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn to learn more about all the technical instruments and materials we put at your disposal.
