The job of an architect is to put together a design that is both functional and appealing. But there is more to it than that – an architect must also think about the safety of the building and its occupants, the environment, and the budget.
Without a doubt, creativity is the most important quality an architect must have.
What we also know, creative people tend to like body art, and tattoos are by far the most popular form of body art. So, the question is, can architects have tattoos?
The answer is… it depends.
Can Architects Have Tattoos?
One thing is for sure – there is no regulation prohibiting architects from having tattoos. But that doesn’t mean that all architects have them, or that all companies are okay with them.
Some companies may have strict dress codes that do not allow for visible tattoos. Others may be more lenient, allowing employees to cover up their tattoos with clothing. And still, others may not care one way or the other.
So, if you’re an architect with tattoos, the best thing to do is to check your company’s policies before displaying them.
However, even if your company does allow tattoos, there are some professional considerations to keep in mind.
For example, if you’re working on a high-profile project, it’s important to remember that your client may not be comfortable with your tattoos. In these cases, it’s best to err on the side of caution and keep them covered.
At the end of the day, whether or not you can have tattoos as an architect comes down to a combination of personal preference and company policy. There is no right or wrong answer – it’s up to you to decide what works best for you and your career.
Of course, being your own boss gives you a lot more freedom in this regard. The decision in this case will depend entirely on how you want to present yourself and your work to the world.
The Cultural Aspect
Whether or not tattoos are a good idea will also depend on the culture of the country you’re working in.
In some cultures, tattoos are seen as a sign of strength and power. In others, they’re seen as a sign of rebellion or gangs. And in still others, they’re simply seen as a form of self-expression.
As an architect, it’s important to be aware of the cultural context in which you’re working. This will help you to make the best decision for yourself, and for your career.
Tattooed Architects Now vs Then
Tattoos have been around for centuries, and their popularity has only grown in recent years.
Originally associated with delinquency and sailors, tattoos have pretty much become mainstream. A study from the Pew Research Center found that 36% of Americans aged 18-29 have at least one tattoo. This is a significant increase from the 16% of Americans in that age group who reported having a tattoo in 2000.
The rise in the popularity of tattoos has been mirrored in the world of architecture. In the past, architects with tattoos were few and far between. But nowadays, they are becoming more and more common.
Something that was frowned upon just a few years ago is now seen as edgy and cool. And as the stigma around tattoos continues to dissipate, we can only expect to see more architects with ink in the future.
The current trends in the tattoo world – from micro tattoos to minimalist designs – are also appealing to architects who want to express their creative side.
Some Tattoo Areas Are Safer Than Others
There are some areas of the body that are better suited for tattoos than others. This is because in case there’s a need for it, you can always cover them up.
For example, the hands, feet, and face are generally considered to be off-limits for tattoos. This is because they are more likely to fade over time and can be difficult to hide.
The neck is another area that is often avoided. The skin in this area is thinner and more delicate, which can make the tattoo process more painful. Additionally, neck tattoos can be difficult to cover up, which may not be ideal for professional settings.
If you’re an architect with tattoos, it’s important to consider where they are located on your body. You may want to keep them hidden for professional purposes, or you may be comfortable displaying them.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide what works best for you and your career.
Some of the easily coverable places for tattoos include the:
- upper back
- shoulders
- upper arms
- lower legs
At the end of the day, there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to whether or not architects can have tattoos. It’s a personal decision that depends on factors like company policy and professional considerations.
Tattoos to Avoid
While the perfect tattoo placement is debatable, there are some tattoo types that you might want to avoid altogether.
These are the tattoos that can ignite the most controversy and may not be well-received in a professional setting.
- Religious tattoos
- Political tattoos
- Racist tattoos
- Sexist tattoos
- Tattoos with profanity
If for one reason or another you’re an architect with any of these types of tattoos, it’s important to be aware of the potential ramifications. You may want to keep them hidden or cover them up when you’re in professional settings.
Architects & Tattoos: Conclusion
In conclusion, there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to whether or not architects can have tattoos. It’s a personal decision that depends on factors like company policy and professional considerations.
At the end of the day, you’ll need to decide what’s best for you and your career. If you do choose to get a tattoo, be sure to pick a placement and design that won’t hinder your professional prospects.
