Civil engineering and architecture complement each other. An architect's responsibility is taking care of a building's shape and design. A civil engineer, on the other hand, looks into the technical nuances such as the building's strength. In other words, civil engineering is science (physics); architecture is an art. An architect's primary focus stays on a structure's aesthetic appearance. Architecture has a close relationship with civil engineering. In fact, some decades ago, an architect wasn't viewed as a distinct job professional.
Properly implemented architecture concepts make sure a building isn't just strong, but its inhabitants are secure and comfortable too. Civil engineers don't care much about the design, looks, greenery, in-house lighting, etc. with an architect around. The engineer's primary job is making a strong and stable building. Besides mastering architecture concepts, an architect must have basic structural engineering knowledge too.
Architecture in Further Detail
An architect not just helps a civil engineer. In fact, a construction project's designing and planning is not done without an architect's input. The architect's primary function is establishing land and buildings with reference to aesthetic and functional requirements. The field, over the years, has metamorphosed into a vast academic discipline, with different architecture forms being studied: rural architecture, urban architecture, modern architecture, contemporary architecture, etc. And the introduction of software programs such as Maya, 3D Max, CAM and CAD have made the job much easier for both architects and civil engineers as the graphical representations help with understanding and efficiency.
Civil Engineering in More Detail
Civil engineering is probably the broadest and oldest engineering discipline of all engineering fields. The domain deals with designing, planning, and constructing various buildings and structures.
Civil engineering usage dates back to several hundred years. For example, most structures part of the original Seven Wonders required some level of civil engineering skill and expertise. In fact, the oldest global civilizations like Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa wouldn't have been possible without engineering.
Civil engineering is not just the oldest but also the most diverse of all engineering disciplines. Technically, this engineering branch is responsible for the infrastructure of the entire world. Structures such as dams, tunnels, bridges, sewers, canals, highways, industrial plants, railway lines, residential buildings, airports, etc. fall under this engineering discipline's umbrella.
In addition, with the world's population increasing and technology getting more advanced, the requirement for more and much better infrastructure would go up across the world. This engineering sub-field continues catering to requirements of humans in all aspects and sectors.
Environmental Connect
This construction-focused engineering domain deals with erecting reliable buildings with definite longevity. With the increase in awareness pertaining to renewable energy sources, this engineering domain is getting even more popular. In fact, environmental engineering is a civil engineering sub-branch. It deals with making buildings with low environmental impact and zero carbon footprints. Also, environmental engineering meddles with creating both offshore and onshore structures for making environment-friendly and efficient energy sources. A few of these applications comprise several methods for purifying contaminated water and air, using solar energy, making fresh water, using water and wind energy, and safeguarding the marine environment. We have covered most of the important information in this article, but you can get additional information here.