Kavita Sharma
Kavita Sharma’s Master of Architecture (Professional) provided hands-on experience to flourish with Warren and Mahoney Architects.
What were your favourite things about studying here?
“The dedicated studio space became like a second home for most of us. It is a communal space to create and work with your peers, and even have impromptu dinner and boardgame nights! The space encourages a sense of community and provides a support system which you can rely on throughout your studies.”
How did your studies prepare you for your current career pathway?
“Learning how to take a design concept from the start of a project to the end was something I learnt throughout each design paper. We learned how to execute the design in line with this concept, interrogating what materials to use, how people use the space, and how it is constructed. I have found that the clarity of design intention is so important in practice and becomes even more significant when the project goes into construction. You must retain that vision that defines what the project is.”
What did a typical week look like for you while studying architecture?
“A typical week involved lectures and a core design paper. The lectures included a range of courses like architecture technology and history. So, one day you could be looking at how to detail timber construction and the next you could be learning the classical order of columns in ancient Greek architecture. The design paper was based around a project responding to a brief. You would have tutorial sessions with the tutor to present and discuss your ideas and get guidance. The rest of the time you would be in the studio working on developing your design building models, sketches, CAD modelling.”
I was proud to receive The Warren Trust Prize and the Inaugural Scarlet Prize in Architecture during my studies. The mentorship included in the Scarlet Prize has been invaluable as they provide a continued support system.
Did you have any industry opportunities as part of your degree?
“In my first year of the Master of Architecture (Professional) degree, I spent two weeks at an open desk internship with Archimedia Architects. This was really valuable for me to get first-hand experience in an architecture firm and see what an architect does day-to-day.”
I am currently working on a project in construction, so I am hoping to see it through to completion as my case-study project to become a registered architect!