My ethical career: Architect

Age
29

Education
Seven years of architectural studies at Cardiff University. (It’s a science degree, two years of architecture degree, and I did a year in Malaysia). Finally, after two years working in an architect’s office, you take a final set of exams. Only then are you entitled to the title "architect".

So, what do you actually do?
I work for White Design Associates designing buildings, ranging from small scale domestic projects to schools, offices and community centres.

What makes your job so ethical?
The construction, occupation and disposal of buildings is a significant cause of environmental damage. White Design is committed to supporting clients in making a positive contribution to sustainability by developing low energy, low environmental impact buildings.

How did you get into the job?
Environmental design was always core to my work at university. Unfortunately there are very few architectural firms who actively integrate the social, economic and environmental aspects of sustainability in the work they do. White Design has specialised in the design of context sensitive, low environmental impact buildings since 1998. For me it seemed the natural way to go.

What does your typical day involve?
What architects do best is draw, so many hours are spent sketching new designs or producing detailed technical construction drawings. There are many client meetings to ensure that what we are proposing meets with their expectations. I am currently designing a primary school in Sheffield where my "client" includes its pupils, parents, staff and the local community.

What kind of personality is best suited to working in a job like yours?
You must have patience. Not only is the course quite long, but it also takes years for designs to come to fruition. You must be a team player, be able to listen to others and integrate their ideas into the design. No one likes an arrogant architect.

What’s the most memorable experience you’ve had in this job?
The time when the builders have moved out, and the client has moved into the building you helped design, is always memorable.

What are the best things about your job?
You are always learning new skills and there is no opportunity to get bored. Plus, you get paid to do colouring in.

Any top tips for someone wanting to get into this work?
Find out about local architects in your area and see if you can spend a week or two working with them to discover if architecture really is for you.

White Design Associates
www.white-design.co.uk