So You Wanna Be an Architect? Advice for the Aspiring Creative-Builder
Architecture sits at the crossroads of art and engineering, theory and execution, creativity and logic. It’s no surprise that a lot of people are curious about how to become one—and whether they’d be any good at it.
Madison sat down with architect, Adam Wagoner to ask:
What drew you to architecture, and what advice would you give to someone who’s thinking about it as a career?
For Adam, it started with construction. His dad and uncle were general contractors, and he assumed he’d follow in their footsteps. He enrolled in architecture school thinking it would make him a better builder.
But just a few weeks in, everything changed.
“My mind was blown by the possibilities. You’re thinking about space, designing structure and material, and imagining how people interact with the world—all through buildings. It was love at first drawing.”
Architecture school pushes you to unlearn what you think you know about buildings and reimagine them from scratch. It’s not just technical—it’s deeply creative, conceptual, and yes… hard.
So, What Should an Aspiring Architect Know?
It’s more than just drawing house plans. Architects are designing experiences, shaping culture, and blending function with beauty.
It’s a team sport. From clients to interior designers, engineers, contractors, and sustainability consultants—great architecture is collaborative.
It’s rigorous. Architecture school is demanding, and many students drop out in the first year. But if it clicks, it really clicks.
Adam’s tip?
Start exploring now. Watch documentaries, attend lectures (many are online nowadays), and look into different architecture schools—they all have unique vibes and strengths. And remember, a “successful” architect isn’t just one who builds flashy towers—they’re the ones who create spaces that truly matter to people.
