Henry: Architecture

What does your job involve?

This year I have been doing my RIBA part I at AR Design Studio in Winchester as an Architectural Designer.

It covers a range of skills, largely in terms of design, planning and technical design. I have assisted my lead architect in being been part of a design team that produces high quality residential designs of contemporary architecture.

In particular I have been responsible in helping produce and guiding several projects through planning including High Wyck House and Moat Cottage, amongst others of similar scale, type and quality. Additionally I have helped develop plans at concept stage and produced some 3D work in Revit and Sketchup for clients.

How did your course prepare you for your job?

It helped me prepare a set of skills that will be used in the workspace. It also helped me develop my own designs which will be useful in the workplace. I also developed a great deal of knowledge that has helped me in working in this field.

What are your top tips for students wanting to work in your field?

Develop a range of skills - try to use a new program or system to a new project while and university, that way you can develop and enrich your skill set for work. It is useful in particular to be well practiced in Revit, Autocad and Sketchup in my case, alongside Indesign and Photoshop. Employees love it if you can hand draw and produce diagrams for clients as it gives a real hands on feeling to a project. Knowledge in buildings regulations is also key.

What was your best experience of studying at Liverpool?

I loved the city and made many life-long and amazing friends. I also enjoyed the student community feel it had with various events in and around the city. In terms of the course, my final year was by far the best as it gave us opportunities to engage with real clients and sites in and around the pre-industrial city. The workshop was also a great way to explore new ideas from a practical side of things.