I made a decision to study architecture about three years ago. During my last couple of years at school, I was a mathematician, a physicist, and a philosopher, but most importantly an artist. I loved creating paintings and sketches within the rectangular frame of a canvas, but looking into the profession of building design through the pages of books and magazines, I realised that it was possible to create pieces of art as spaces in which people could daily live.
So I have recently finished my second year of study at MSA, and today I am in the midst of a month of placement with Raynes Architecture. I start working at about 9 in the morning, after a cycle to the lovely area of Chorlton. I have done a good deal of admin work but more interestingly have been involved in the building projects, which means I am designing spaces, and observing meetings where I introduce myself as ‘Lisa’s Shadow’. This is my first experience in an architect’s office and I suppose the question is, is it living up to my high hopes?
I am an idealist and as much as anything, the industry is not some kind of perfect dream factory, everything is a process. But Raynes Architecture does bring the dreams of individuals to reality in the world and it is an amazing place to be. It has been incredible to design in real life situations, as well as to work alongside others with more experience towards the same goal of making the world a more beautiful place.