A work sample architecture is essentially a concise and targeted summary, often a PDF or a short website, designed to showcase your best architectural work to potential employers or clients. Think of it as a trailer for your full architecture portfolio.
Here's a breakdown of what it entails:
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Purpose: To quickly demonstrate your skills, design philosophy, and project experience in a readily accessible format. It serves as a first impression, enticing the viewer to explore your complete portfolio.
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Format: Typically a PDF document (ideally 5 MB or less and 2-8 pages long) or a brief website.
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Content:
- A selection of your most compelling projects (no more than 3).
- Focus on quality over quantity. Choose projects that highlight your key strengths and align with the type of work you're pursuing.
- Include concise descriptions of your role, design challenges, and solutions for each project.
- Use high-quality images and graphics to visually communicate your designs.
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Key Considerations:
- Brevity: Keep it short and to the point. Recruiters and clients often have limited time.
- Visual Appeal: Presentation matters. Ensure the document is well-designed and visually engaging.
- Relevance: Tailor the work sample to the specific job or client you're targeting.
- Accessibility: Make sure the work sample is easy to download and view on various devices.
In essence, a work sample architecture is a strategic tool that allows you to efficiently communicate your architectural capabilities and secure opportunities. It acts as a gateway to your more extensive portfolio.
