Z - Architecture - 21/06/12 (still bookable by phone 01276 687512)

Aims

• to ensure the students get a feel for what the role of an architect is like - the benefits and pitfalls. 

•  to present them with ideas about the sort of activities to undertake to further their chances of success in this field.

Challenges

• working in a team, consisting of people that they have not met before, on a demanding design project.

• playing a part in a brief presentation, graphically displayed, on the team's idea, demonstrating creativity and feasibility

• in order to complete the project in the time available they will need to come up with ideas (and appreciate other people's ideas) and make decision

• produce well designed material representing creative efforts and practical solutions.

• don't be afraid to ask questions if there is something you don't understand.

Opportunities

• there will be plenty of chances to ask the workshop staff questions on any aspects of architecture and the qualification route

• for example, how to set about and benefit from work experience

• how to prepare a personal statement and a portfolio, as part of the application process

• to learn first hand about the realities and pros and cons of this profession.

Programme

The projects includes designing:

• a new holiday home for Posh and Becks

• a village primary school

• a medical health centre

• a small country hotel

• a cricket pavilion

In order to have enough time to produce meaningful drawings and plans each team will concentrate on one of these projects. Stafford Williams, the course leader, will provide an overall operational brief as part of his general introductory comments, base on his considerable experience working as an architect.

Throughout the day he will spend time with each team providing guidance and professional expertise.  He will assess the quality of the designs and plans presented by the teams, provide a detailed critique and select the winning team.  A member of the University's staff will give a brief session on what information they look for in a candidate's personal statement and portfolio.  There will be plenty of opportunities to ask questions about the application principles and procedures. 

Conclusions

These workshops are designed to encourage students to learn through tackling challenging and realistic team projects.

Organisations and professionals you will meet

On his return to London he joined another private practice, before moving to DMWR where he stayed for over 30 years, working on a wide range of projects and commissions. 

For the last 15 years of his career he was Senior Partner. In his youth he was a talented cricketer and now excels at tennis and golf. 

Julian Williams, Westminster University – will be talking to students about the Undergraduate Programme in Architecture and will be able to answer any questions about university admissions and what universities look for in a successful UCAS application.