The class of 2014: Architects

Abigail Watts-Cherry

Age: 24
Qualification/training: Masters in Architecture
Job: Part 2 architectural assistant
At: Hawkins Brown, London
From: Elstree, Hertfordshire

Why did you want to join the construction industry?
I was always creative, always drawing as a child, always doing plans.I eventually got told I should be an architect. I didn’t really think of it as joining the construction industry, I saw it as a creative and design profession.

What did you think about the image of construction when you decided to join?
At university [studying architecture] we don’t really get presented with the reality of the construction industry, it’s a bit of a shock. So my perception of architecture was of a visual, creative profession. I suppose if I thought anything of construction it was of it being a bit of a boys club, and quite intimidating.

How forward thinking do you perceive construction to be?
In Britain I think we’re not as forward thinking as other countries, we’re quite conservative in the buildings we build. People make fun of the likes of Zaha as creating wacky things like the aquatic centre, whereas in Holland or the US the view wouldn’t be the same. Here people want to have whatever’s normal.

Are you worried the culture of the industry will present challenges?
Yes. When I started to work I realised I was in a minority. In construction there is a certain way of communicating, a different culture which is probably less accepting of difference than among just architects.

First year ambitions?
To stay at my practice, and see projects through from start to end; to see something realised that I have contributed towards.

Longer term ambitions?
To get my part 3, to enjoy practice work, to excel. Ultimately I’d love to one day become a partner at Hawkins Brown, or set up my own interdisciplinary design practice.

Marija Ambrasaite

Age: 22
Qualification/training: BA in Architecture
Job: Part 1 Architectural Assistant
At: RHWL, London
From: Siauliai, Lithuania

Why did you want to join the construction industry?
My interest in architecture emerged from early childhood, living in a grey, concrete Russian Constructivist apartment block in my native Lithuania. Here I witnessed how an austere built environment can have a huge influence on how people feel, think, and behave in everyday life. Seeing that I had an opportunity to make the world a better - and happier - place by creating better buildings to live inspired me to study architecture.

What did you think about the image of construction when you decided to join?
I came to study in the UK three years ago with no preconceptions of the industry. It’s been a positive adventure so far and I’ve found it very welcoming and people-oriented.

How forward thinking do you perceive construction to be?
This is a profession that combines the arts and sciences and it’s full of challenges, experimentation and active decision making, so it definitely feels as though we are at the forefront of thinking on the built environment.

Are you worried the culture of the industry will present challenges?
A career without challenges is rare and challenges tend to excite, rather than concern, me. The culture of the construction industry is changing rapidly so it is down to us, the next generation of architects, to determine the direction it will take.

First year ambitions?
I’m aiming to develop both my practical and professional knowledge and gain new skills, working on real-life projects including the refurbishment and extension of the Queensborough Terrace Hotel in Mayfair and new build five star Crowne Plaza Hotel on the Albert Embankment.

Longer term ambitions?
To become a qualified architect, travel the world and leave a lasting legacy that will improve the world we live in.

Emma Taylor

Age: 23
Qualification/training: Architecture degree
Job: Working in practice towards Part 2
At: Assael, London
From: Kent

Why did you want to join the construction industry?
At school I was always good at science and maths but I had a creative side. It seemed the logical way to put that together.

How forward thinking do you perceive construction to be?
Especially in architecture I think very forward thinking. Even in engineering, the technical innovation, the way they push materials to use in new ways, it’s really forward thinking - and now it has to be in terms of sustainability. The stereotype is of a male-driven industry, but it’s been quite balanced so far - I think that’s just the perception.

First year ambitions?
I want to interact with clients and go back with as much experience in my back pocket as possible.

Longer term ambitions?
To qualify and then to work my way up the ladder, get more creative input and expand what I can do.

Lucrecia Mercedes Bibiloni

Age: 38
Qualification/training: Qualified Architect (In Argentina), BA (Hons) Architecture (UK)
Job: Architectural assistant
At: HLM, Plymouth
From: Argentina

Why did you want to join the construction industry?
Architecture is a fascinating field to work in, as it not only combines the different sides of art, but also science, technology and humanities.

How forward thinking do you perceive construction to be?
Environmental issues are becoming one of the key features in the design and construction. In my opinion sustainability and energy efficiency, combined with new and adapted technologies, will be the main principles to be considered in the following years.

First year ambitions?
Joining the HLM Plymouth Office was a great opportunity not only to work with a close-knit team of great professionals but also a good chance to get involved.

Longer term ambitions?
Continuing to learn, take on additional responsibilities, and contribute as much as I can.