What is the difference between Architecture and Industrial Design?

Question

I start as a freshmen at NJIT this fall to major in Architecture. But before I start, I want to know what is the difference between Architecture and Industrial Design? I need help to make sure I'm making the rite choice or if I should major in Industrial Design...

FYI: I am not really into art, I like drawing anything with tools and specific measurements.

Answer 1

Architecture is the art and science of designing buildings and structures. A wider definition often includes the design of the total built environment: from the macrolevel of town planning, urban design, and landscape architecture to the microlevel of construction details and furniture. The term "Architecture" is also used for the profession of providing architectural services.

Architectural design involves the manipulation of mass, space, volume, texture, light, shadow, materials, program, and other elements in order to achieve an end which is aesthetic as well as functional. This distinguishes Architecture from the applied science of engineering which usually concentrates on the structural and feasibility aspects of design.

According to the IDSA (Industrial Design Society of America) "Industrial Design (ID) is the professional service of creating and developing concepts and specifications that optimize the function, value and appearance of products and systems for the mutual benefit of both user and manufacturer."

Good luck in whatever you choose to do!!

Answer 2

I had to choose between architecture and another course years ago. I decided on another course because architecture is very art oriented. I like art but I was not nearly as artistic as the other architecture students. I was more analytical and liked numbers, more like the engineers. I ended up in economics. Look into yourself and see what it is that attracts you to each area. Architecture also does not have the money making potential of many other areas. A few of the very high profile architects get the big, glamorous jobs and the rest are lucky to get small jobs for building additions and renovations. To be happy as an architect, I believe you really must love it and know you love it. It will pay the bills, but most will not be rich. I have since designed a couple houses and done renovations. It allows me to indulge the interest that remains.

Answer 3

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I do not completely agree with architecture being "artsy" due to the fact that I work with this industry, but there is a bit of truth to it. It has to do with blue prints and layouts and specifications. They study modern and historical architecture (for instance, how the Myans designed their cities) and Frank Lloyd Wright's work. They look at schools and how the layout would benefit the students. There is a lot of drawing involved, yes. That part is true with regard to "artsy" If you go into Arch. you will not have a license until you obtain your Master's Degree. However, being an architect is a field in which you really need to be present in your blood. You have to want it. It consists of drawing, AutoCad, construction, statics, structures, wiring, etc. It is not an easy field. The B.S. Architecture is the pre-professional degree that gives students knowledge and career opportunities in architecture, the building industry, and related fields. Design is a different world with regard to interiors and placement. I am not familiar with design so much as architecture. If you graduate with a degree in art and design, your salary will be dependent upon several factors. Among these variables are your skill level, your geographic location, and your client base. It is great that you are interested in looking into a field NOW that you are in HS. Texas Tech requires that you have your associate's degree in Pre-Architecture prior to enrolling in the 3rd and 4th year. This is something to think about...

Answer 4

Hey, I'm an Industrial Design student at Carnegie Mellon, and I've got a number of friends in the Architecture department. Generally, Architects usually design environments, spaces and structures, and Industrial Designers design products, services, and interactions. However, there's a lot of cross over between the disciplines, especially in areas like interior/environmental design or spacial interaction. On a personal level, I think Industrial Designers tend to focus more on the user experience, while Architects concentrate on the design concept.

If you really like drawing with tools (e.g. drafting, or using CAD programs), you'll probably like studying architecture. Most good ID programs will make you draw freehand, which is one of the things I like about it.

Good luck, and from the sound of it, neither choice will make you unhappy.