What does it take to become an software or technical architect?

Yes as Sunny said, smaller the company, more experience you get with multiple projects. It's like building small paper boats, you will build a one. 

Here are the key skills from my Delhi Chapter session:

1. Experience & Knowledge
2. Mind Reader
3. Adaptive and Self-Learner
4. Motivator and Bargainer
5. Leadership
6. Visionary 
7. Communication, Creative and Writing Skills

Re-phrasing the words by Mahesh Chand Sir:

"It takes nothing but the Experience. Smaller the company, better the opportunity to learn faster. If you're in a big company, there might be the chances of being limited to a particular domain/work but being in a smaller company you get exposure to much more development activities. May be you're responsible for doing all the things alone or in a small group of members."


Hope it adds a little value to your question.