Two architecture students have gained invaluable work experience as a result of participating in the Association of Women in Property (WiP) National Student Awards.  In addition to the confidence boost of becoming a finalist, one of the benefits of entering the Awards is the access to firms offering work placements.

A good example is Manchester based Raynes Architecture.  Lisa Raynes, Chairman of Women in Property North West 2009-2011, was invited to judge the 2011 student awards, where she was given a showcase of the best of the North West property students.

Impressed by their talent and enthusiasm, she invited two of the brightest architectural students to join her for work placements during the summer.   Charlotte Robinson is studying Architecture at Manchester School of Architecture and was announced winner of the North West Student Awards this year.  Eleanor Winder is studying Architecture Design Technology at Salford University and is a finalist in the North West Awards. 

Lisa Raynes said,

“The girls are like a shot of espresso!  Their enthusiasm is motivational. I love the intelligent banter offering a completely fresh point of view. 

“They have helped me test my systems, administration, reports and so on, as well as assisting on ‘real life’ schemes, so they have gained valuable experience. I think for all of us it’s a win-win situation.  The WiP Student Awards programme offers real opportunities to students and employers alike – I would encourage other businesses to take a close look at this scheme and the talented group of young women it identifies. There are some real stars of the future.”

Charlotte Robinson said,

“I gained a placement as an Architectural Assistant at Raynes Architecture after winning the North West region Women in Property Student Award.

“As a relatively small practice, working at Raynes Architecture has allowed me to experience a comprehensive range of responsibilities held by an architect, from meetings with clients to understanding building regulations. I have developed a thorough understanding of project feasibility and a real insight into the building industry, especially interesting working in the current economic climate and understanding the restrictions this may bring.”

Eleanor said:

“During difficult economic times gaining a placement is vital and I am so pleased to have attained it through the WIP Student Awards.  My tutor putting me forward for the Awards in recognition of my work has had a very positive effect.

“Working with Lisa I have been given a lot of responsibility and, due to the work load, I have had to take the initiative on projects assigned to me, making sure deadlines were adhered to. This has given me a good understanding of the RIBA stages and how they are implemented in reality. In this time I have been able to put into practice the theory learnt so far in my two years of study and it really helps to see the principles in action “

At Eweleaze farm where we camped this summer, the main farm building was roofed in glass solar slates. Installed in 2003 they looked a fantastic alternative the the rectangular Photovoltaic panels commonly used. Solar thermal tiles, producing hot water rather than electricity, are far more efficient than photovoltaics. Ideal for conservation projects, I am keen to use them in the North West.

We've just returned after a week at the eco-friendly Eweleaze campsite in Dorset, with spectacular views over the Jurassic Coast, Chesil Beach, Portland and Weymouth. 

Day 1 we explored the campsite, private beach, straw bale soft play, composting loos, solar showers, farm animals aplenty (9yo and 6yo walked the sites dogs twice a day come rain or shine for the length of our stay-ingenious) Day 2 we explored Portland and the history of Portland stone. Day 3 pizza night from the sites wood fired pizza van. Day 4 gave us a spectacular red arrows display (2 days before we received the sad news of the crash) Day 6 day trip to Corfe Castle
Day 6 one of the guests arrived by helicopter. Various celebs were seen wandering round the campsite.

After years of studying Poundbury, we finally visited the place in a rainy summers day.

Poundbury is Prince Charles' vision of Britain brought to life. Masterplanned by Leon Krier, with not a modern 'carbuncle' in sight. Poundbury was conceived 20 years ago as an extension to Dorchester. Built on Farm Land, the site now houses over 500 dwellings. Unfortunately most are second or even third homes, the streets were eerily quiet. The feel of the village was not dissimilar to Portmerion.

Designed by Ben Pentreath the Duchy's architect you can view his website here  http://www.benpentreath.com/

Building is expected to continue to 2024.

A treasure hunt was held on Tuesday evening aimed at raising awareness of Manchester city centre's architectural history and legacy for the future.

Organised by independent architects Lisa Raynes and Jane Leach, the event was part of the RIBA North West Solo Practitioners Group's contribution to this year's Architecture Festival.

Teams raced against the clock to uncover Manchester's hidden gems, following a series of cryptic clues, whilst gaining a better understanding of some of the city's iconic and best-loved buildings.

Lisa Raynes, from Raynes Architecture, said: "I was overwhelmed by the response; we had 14 teams participating, on foot the teams uncovered architectural gems, the Calatrava bridge crossing the Irwell, the Bridgewater Hall, the Royal Exchange Theatre. I thank all the members of the SPG who helped on the night and provided liquid surprises on route."

Jane Leach, principal chartered architect of i-architect, said: "I was impressed by how well the teams did to solve the cryptic clues, with one or two teams gaining full marks, whilst others came up with some imaginative alternative solutions, which gained them bonus points. The scavenger hunt added an extra fun element to the event. There was some serious competition to win the overall prize, the design classic Alessi corkscrew."

The winner of the Alessi corkscrew, donated by Bladons of Hale, was team one from architects BDP, which collated the most points.

Other prizes were awarded on the evening including the winner with "the most scavenger hunt items", which was presented to the team titled SK Transport Buccaneers.

Paul Unger, editor of Place North West, participated in the fun, joining public relations firm Bell Pottinger North, and his team, Ere We Go Jones, was winner of a human resources consultancy assessment courtesy of Ubuntu HR.

Framed photographs by Manchester-based photographer Damien Maguire were awarded to a team made up of representatives from planning advisor DPP, law firm DWF, and Whale Marketing, calling themselves Kevin, which were the first team to arrive back.

Other awards included a sketch of John Rylands Library, presented to the Mixed Bag team, while members of networking group BNI Flagship Chapter won a plate of cupcakes for coming up with the best team name, Jammy Dodgers.

A second team from architect practice BDP was not so fortunate, collecting a packet of tic tacs for their efforts in gaining the least amount of points.

Martin Percox, chairman of the RIBA North West Solo Practitioners Group, added: "It's great for the SPG to be part of the Architecture Festival 2011; this group comprises architectural private practice solo principals from across the North West region and provides members with mutual support, emergency cover and continuing professional development. The practices of its members are small to medium size with a diverse range of experience and specialism to offer clients.

On Friday 27th May 2011 I asked twitter the following question: @LisaRaynes Whats the most important lesson you've learned so far in running your own business?

and this is the response:

@AquaDesignGroup: @LisaRaynes be careful who you deal with and be honest to your clients!!

 @SandyLindsay: @LisaRaynes always employ the best people you can afford - you get what you pay for!

@Moregeous: @LisaRaynes Try not to work 24hrs a day, 7 days a week, 52 weeks a year *looks at own life and rolls eyes*

designconscious design conscious @ @LisaRaynes nip any problems in the bud - a mountain is harder to conquer than a molehill. Saves time & reputation in long run.

Thirlwall_Assoc Claire Thirlwall @ @LisaRaynes be yourself and say no to work that isn't you, however tight finances are.

Fiona_kirwan Fiona Kirwan @ @LisaRaynes Cash flow is everything!

SandyLindsay SandyLindsay @ @designconscious @LisaRaynes yes that's the other piece of business advice - never EVER ignore your gut!

SandyLindsay SandyLindsay @ @LisaRaynes @designconscious @Moregeous ha! Maybe that's another #businessgem - don't let yourself be distracted (...except by CAKE!)

LauraJudaica Laura Cowan @ @LisaRaynes do what makes your heart sing and delegate all the rest.

LauraJudaica Laura Cowan @ @LisaRaynes and keep in mind the 80/20 Pareto principle when dealing with clients.

ElinaGrigoriou elinagrigoriou 1 lesson is Bank Holidays still apply!!

BatMordecai Devorah Bayer @ @LisaRaynes Patience and Persistence

I was North West chairman from July 2009 to February 2011 when I handed over to Claire Beaumont. 

Women in Property has helped me launch my new architectural practice Raynes Architecture and help me win work, as well as being an amazing network and providing support.

Profile

I took my post as the economy and our membership were nose diving.

4 things were important to me, reviving the committee, a strong events calendar, the WIP mentoring and student awards programmes and increasing the profile of the branch.

On the people side, mentoring become key, and I looked to past chairs Jo Farrell and Jean Godbert for their expertise and guidance. I also looked to develop the committee and restablish a presence in Liverpool with Kat Brown and Pamela Chesterman.

On the events side, organising members only events like the site visit to Ian Simpsons penthouse in the Beetham Tower, or the site visit to the Civil Justice Centre, ensure we give our members unrivalled opportunities.

Partnership with other organizations was key in providing our members with quality events eg CIOB for the Annual Dinner, Forward Ladies for the Cherie Blair and Arlene Phillips lunch and we also supported the charity Forever Manchester.

Raising the profile of Wip and the branch I saw as fundamental to recruiting new and senior members. Realising the importance of PR, Sarah Atta from Lexington Communications came on board as PR coordinator, with Sue McGuire Milestone PR in the national WiP PR post.  I sat down early on in my term with Sarah to create a PR strategy for the year.

Over the 21 months, we had an unprecedented amount of press both in print and on line, in regional and national press, including RIBA journal, MEN, the Place, Manchester Confidential, the Independent and many others.

In parallel I developed a social media presence on twitter and consequently linked-in.

How it has helped me:

Confidence building

Standing up and speaking to rooms full of people and Chairing committee meetings have been great confidence builders.

Using wip as a tool to be able to go direct to leading industry figures, universities, target clients, key periodicals to say arrange an event or ask for sponsorship, partner up or look for a mentor, has opened many doors.

As chairman of WiP north west I’ve been invited to fabulous events. As a VIP guest at the MSA dinner along with Ruth Reed the RIBA national president. Then to the women of the year lunch in london with Annie Lennox, Zaha Hadid and a host of other high profile females. And recently to the Beautiful Magazine event with in Manchester with Lynne Franks too!

It's from this base that when I was made redundant in September 2010 as victim of the economic climate, I was able to hit the ground running so to speak and use the platform afforded to me by WiP to launch my new practice, Raynes Architecture.

The press and social media presence have resulted in high rankings on google. Following the launch of the Raynes Architecture website in October 2010, I’m now on the first page of Google if you type architect south Manchester, didsbury, chorlton, wilmsow and sometimes even architect Manchester.

This has brought me direct business - 4 leads, the first of which has converted into a proper job. And I hope the others to follow suit

And via google a journalist from the Times found me, and I’m in this Friday’s paper-in the Bricks and Mortar section.

All my other jobs have been Referrals directly as a result of my Wip contacts.

As well as promoting the Student Awards, I was honoured to judge this year, I met so many fantastic students, and have taken one on as an intern. I’ve been invited to lecture at 3 universities and I’ve been able to speak to very senior people at one university, with potentially project opportunities.

Business experience

Wip has also given me an insight into accounts, essential business knowledge. I have also learnt management skills how to motivate a team of people and understand the issues of running a satellite branch.

In summary,it’s a cliché but  you get out what you put in. 

A couple of enterprising young architects are challenging the North West business community to a race this summer, based on their knowledge and appreciation of Manchester’s ‘forgotten’ treasures - many of which (they claim) are clearly ‘hiding in plain sight’.

Sole practitioners Lisa Raynes and Jane Leach are organising a Treasure Hunt as part of the RIBA North West Sole Practitioners Group (SPG)’s contribution to this year’s Architecture Festival. Designed to raise awareness of the city’s proud architectural history and legacy for the future, the hunt will take place around Manchester City Centre on 21st June.

Racing against the clock and following a series of cryptic clues, the treasure-hunters will uncover Manchester’s hidden gems and gain a better understanding of some of the city’s iconic and best-loved buildings. Participants can choose to register as individuals or in teams and the registration fee of £10.00 per head will be used to finance ‘prizes, surprises and pitstops’ along the way.

The idea behind the event was to create something fun but informative which would showcase the built environment as a thing of beauty and acknowledge the valuable contribution made by architecture to the changing urban landscape. “Manchester’s International Festival is now firmly on the map as one of the UK’s leading showcases for the arts,” explains Lisa Raynes, “and as architecture is ‘the mother of the arts’, we really wanted to do something alongside the Festival to remind people of the importance of good architecture to the life of the city. A treasure hunt  seemed like a fun way to do that and it’s open to absolutely everyone. So we hope that lots of non-architects will enter and find out for themselves just how rich Manchester is in architectural heritage and innovation.”

“What we’re really saying to the business community,” adds Jane Leach, “is ‘so, you think you know Manchester ?’  Then it’s time to step up to the plate and see how in depth that knowledge really is. We’ve already had a great deal of interest and it’d be great to make this one of the Festival’s most popular events. We would encourage anyone with an interest in architecture and a secret passion for hidden treasures to join us in the hunt, which promises to be a blast !”

The RIBA NW SPG Treasure Hunt will begin at 5.30 pm with drinks and introductions at Bem Brazil on Great King Street. Expected to take up to two hours, the hunt itself will be followed by an informal reception and prize-giving back at Bem Brazil at around 8.00 pm.

Those interested in registering should contact Lisa at lisa@raynesarchitecture.co.uk to book a place.

not forgetting Art Deco detailing and beautiful walnut burr veneered curved doors. 

When the present Midland Hotel opened in 1933, how peaceful a stay the guests enjoyed is a matter for conjecture. The main railway line to the harbour passed right next to the hotel and for the last thirty years of its existence they had to put up with the noise generated by the neighbouring ship-breakers yard of T.W. Ward.

With it's 44 rooms, you can spot the hotel residents strolling along the public art lined prom. We also spotted a former lido next to the hotel.

We finally made it out of Manchester on the last bank holiday and headed to Morecambe. It took 1hr 20min door to door.

http://www.englishlakes.co.uk/hotels/midland/index.aspx

Chequers Road, Chorlton celebrated the Royal Wedding in style with Manchester's answer to William and Kate's big day with bicycle game, face painting, tug of war and a barbeque. 


Usually used as a rat-run for Manchester United traffic,  the road was officially closed from 9am - 9pm for a street party. 

Residents spent time getting to know neighbours with a Chequers Road quiz including questions about residents links to the Hacienda and how many sound studios were located on the street. 

Lisa Raynes said 'My daughter has been cycling up and down the street all day. This is what it would be like if we lived in a suburbian cul-de-sac. It would be great to reclaim the road again. How do we turn Chequers Road into a home zone or do we look at Alley Gates?'