Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Parti • Curtain Wall • Adaptive Reuse

Structural Grid

Term from Architecture industry explained for recruiters

A Structural Grid is like a building's invisible skeleton mapped out on paper. It's a pattern of evenly spaced lines (like a graph paper) that architects use to plan where important building elements like columns, walls, and beams will go. Think of it as the underlying framework that helps organize a building's layout and ensures it stands up properly. When architects mention working with structural grids, they're talking about planning buildings in an organized way that makes sense both for design and engineering purposes. Other terms you might hear include "column grid," "building grid," or "architectural grid."

Examples in Resumes

Developed office building layouts using Structural Grid system to optimize space efficiency

Created flexible Column Grid designs for multi-story commercial projects

Optimized Building Grid layout to reduce construction costs while maintaining structural integrity

Implemented innovative Structural Grid solutions for open-plan office spaces

Typical job title: "Architects"

Also try searching for:

Architectural Designer Structural Designer Building Designer Project Architect Construction Architect Design Coordinator Technical Architect

Where to Find Architects

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you approach optimizing a structural grid for both cost efficiency and design flexibility?

Expected Answer: A senior architect should discuss balancing column spacing for economic structure while maintaining flexible interior spaces, considering construction methods, and explaining how grid decisions impact project costs and future adaptability.

Q: How do you handle structural grid modifications when renovating existing buildings?

Expected Answer: Should explain the process of analyzing existing grids, working with structural engineers, and creating solutions that integrate new requirements while respecting the building's existing structure.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What factors do you consider when establishing a structural grid for a new project?

Expected Answer: Should mention building type, space requirements, parking layout considerations, construction material efficiency, and coordination with mechanical systems.

Q: How do you coordinate structural grid design with other building systems?

Expected Answer: Should discuss working with engineers, considering mechanical/electrical/plumbing systems placement, and ensuring the grid supports both technical requirements and architectural design.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is a structural grid and why is it important in building design?

Expected Answer: Should explain that it's a organizing system for placing columns and structural elements, helping create order in building design and making construction more efficient.

Q: How do you start laying out a basic structural grid?

Expected Answer: Should describe starting with major building dimensions, considering typical column spacing, and explaining how to align grids with building functions.