Commercial architectures include retail structures, shopping malls, offices, rail and air terminals, hotels and workshops. While designing a commercial structure several aspects have to be considered by a commercial architect. The very first step involves a lot of communication. A commercial architect is required to sell an idea or scheme to a prospective client. As a huge amount of capital is involved around commercial products the initial proposal made by the architect becomes a prime element. Along with a general draft of the project, an architect may be required to create the project blueprints at this point. Generally several models are used while persuading a client.

Several contractors and sub-contractors are involved in the actual execution of the project. A commercial architect has to hold all the central elements and players together while ensuring timely settlement of goals. His portfolio covers a large spectrum of work starting with decision making to problem solving. He is included in the material acquisition cycle too.

The educational qualifications for a commercial architect are a bachelor's or master's degree in architecture. The syllabus for architecture aims at equipping individuals with a combination of theory and practical exposure including several aspects such as designing, usage of CAD tools, construction materials and overall system structures. Good understanding of the parallel sciences like fashion, interior design, psychology and engineering is also healthy. Gaining hands-on experience as an intern under an established commercial agency is an add-on. Going on the job field without any of these may prove appalling.

Commercial architects have to obtain a licensure from the government before practicing. A license may be approved by the required formal education, internship and the license qualifying examination. The work of a commercial architect generally is confined to an office where meetings with clients and designing ideas can be worked upon. However occasional visits to the sites are also required to ensure the overall smooth functionality of the project. A commercial architect works as a part of several teams as the major task of conveying the design plans involves every team of the project right from the construction team to the interior decoration team.

While not choosing to be restricted to only one firm, a commercial architect may work on contractor basis. Each may charge according to his or her experience and level of expertise in building huge structures from the scratch. Architects may also work in tie-ups with contractors and sub-contractors. In such cases they need to convince the client and earn their trust about their choice of the contractors.

He or she should never compromise quality for the sake of budget. While elaborate budgets are assigned, exercising an eye and leash on the monetary aspects of every development cycle in the development of huge structures is a very important thing. A commercial architect discusses the budget specific information with the client during the initial collaboration phase. Complying with the environment and government guidelines is critical for any commercial architecture project to become a success.