Navigation trail

• Home page
• Case studies
• Architect: Peter

Architect: Peter

This Case Study belongs to Architect.

Peter has a BSc in Architecture from Cardiff University and is an architect with a private sector firm of architects.

After graduating with my BSc in Architecture, the construction market was very buoyant so I prepared a CV and applied to six practices. I was fortunate to be invited to three interviews and I was offered a job by my current employer. What appealed to me about this practice was that the principal architect was also an external tutor at my university and was someone who I respected, and whose work fitted my philosophy on architecture.

Following my second degree, the same practice offered me a position to rejoin them. I have remained there ever since, completing my Part 3 diploma last year.

My qualifications were extremely relevant in securing my job. My practice is particularly interested in design with strong architectural concepts, which was embedded into me at Cardiff University. My course also gave me a very balanced education on architectural design and taught me a lot about sustainability and construction, which proved vital for my job. Also, we have very strong links with the university, as 50% of the staff teach there on a part-time basis.

A typical working day involves reviewing most projects during the production, information and through into the construction phase. I therefore spend time emailing and discussing each project with colleagues, dealing with letters and emails and queries via telephone. I then visit the relevant sites to carry out inspections.

My role has developed a lot over time and I’ve been able to take a more senior role in the office. I now oversee most projects during the work stage, which is great as it’s the construction phase that excites and interests me the most. I also assist in the management of the office and resource allocations.

I really enjoy the different aspects the work brings - drawing, writing letters and emails, site visits, health and safety, etc - no two days are ever the same. There are also many different challenging parts of the role, ranging from sorting out detailing issues, to ensuring the concept of a building is maintained, and dealing with disputes on site.

The best thing about working in this sector is creating buildings that could last for decades and helping to make a positive impact on the environment - creating wonderful places and spaces!

The advice I would give to students interested in architecture as a profession is to ensure you have a real passion about the job, and be prepared to embrace all aspects of it.

Case Study sourced by Nick Huston of AGCAS, 22 January 2010.