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I’ve had an interest in architecture for while and over the summer I decided to contact a couple of companies for some information on how to get into the real world of architecture and where to go next for A-levels and beyond. Martin Shutt at Unit3 replied to my request. Not only did he offer me the guidance for my education but had also offered to meet with me at their Liverpool design studio.
When meeting with Martin he talked me through what they do at Unit3 from architecture to graphic design and creative media. He also talk through the process of design and extending buildings from the call from the client to the final result itself. Martin talked through with me about RIBA, the Royal Institute of British Architecture, standards and university expectation in terms of grades and syllabus. He showed me the 3D software they use for modelling and rendering their designs to give clients a more immersive experience.
From this meeting Martin offered me work experience during my school holidays which I was keen to take him up on. I spent a week working on a real project alongside Martin. The design brief was to create a café and visitor centre in a Victorian, currently disused, signal box. I was shown how to use the creative programme, SketchUp, and worked with Martin on proposing an idea for the client. I enjoyed the process of designing the extension as it gave me a lot of creative freedom and the thought that I could one day sit inside my own creation. Martin was very supportive and guiding which made me feel as though I was part of the team. I also had the opportunity to attend a client’s meeting and see how a design brief evolves into a final piece.
Throughout this experience I gained a great insight of how technology and traditional architecture are linking methods together. This gave me the confidence and knowledge that my ideas can be used in real world scenarios. Martin and his team were very supportive, friendly and have given me an aspiration to develop my skills and motivated to look further into the world of architecture. I am very grateful to Martin and the team for taking me on and giving me the opportunity to work with them in their business over the week, it was incredibly informative and I really enjoyed it all.