Lewis North: Student to Practice Owner
What is it like to go from studying architecture to owning your own business?
Well, whilst we’ve all got some extra time on our hands as we navigate the current global pandemic, AN Director Lewis North has taken the time to tell us how he went from a student at the University of Lincoln to owning his own practice, including becoming a RIBA National Council Member.
“My journey from an aspiring student of architecture to having the privilege of running my own business has been an enjoyable but challenging one. It’s now via my work with the RIBA that I can help shape and improve the future careers of those who are looking forward to a career within the industry. Whilst I realise that many students right now will be anxious to know what will happen to their studies, and as a consequence, their future careers as a result of the current crisis, I implore students to stay calm, remain focused, and remember that this too, shall pass.
A key focus of my role as a RIBA council member is to improve the connection between existing practices and architecture schools. I passionately believe that practices should be nurturing students through the use of dedicated course content, alongside personal and professional development opportunities within the industry. And as the industry works hard to keep abreast of and adapt to the current reality that we now found ourselves in, this sentiment is important now more than ever.
Starting Out
My story begins when I was 16 years old, when I told my careers advisor that I wanted to become an architect. She responded by swiftly organising a work placement at Hodson Architects, a practice that was overseeing the design of her property extension. At the time she neglected to mention any of the technicalities, the complex studying, accreditation's and necessary training that was involved to achieve my dream, but nevertheless, I was grateful for this opportunity.
My experience up until this point involved pot washing in a local pub and it was an overwhelming prospect that I now had to produce a CV and start work on the development of a portfolio if I was to take this new career choice seriously. So, I diligently fired up Windows 98 and got to work!
First Steps
Taking my first steps into a practice at the age of sixteen, I was in awe of the space. A former postal office building that was originally brought to life in 1907, the hallways were covered from floor to ceiling in books, journals, and project folders. Artwork adorned the rest of the building and I immediately felt right at home in such an inspiring space that seemed to live and breathe the very essence of what architecture was all about.
During my time at Hodson Architects, I shadowed their CAD technician and began work on small individual projects that allowed me to improve my skills in SketchUp, Photoshop, and AutoCAD. Unsurprisingly, my initial two weeks of work experience ended up lasting two years, and I stayed there throughout my time at Franklin College.
From here I completed a short period at the then RIBA validated Hull School of Architecture, and then moved on after completing my year in industry to the University of Lincoln. It was at Lincoln that I embarked upon a truly immersive two years of structured teaching, mentoring and unbridled RIBA support.
If you are thinking about undertaking architecture at an RIBA validated school, a full list of accredited schools can be found here - RIBA Validated Schools
It important you apply for a RIBA validated school as they are well structured, formatted with a history of promoting high-quality and innovative educational programmes throughout the world.
Through validation, the RIBA identifies course and examinations which achieve the professional standards necessary to prepare students for their careers.
Studying Architecture
For students looking to undertake their educational studies in the current climate I would offer the following advice:
Research your university thoroughly, and do not apply to courses blindly. Think about everything from the city it is located, the facilities, student/teacher ratios, and resources both on and offline, through to printing and the availability of materials, and access to workshop resources.
No question is wrong. If there is a gap in your knowledge it is because it has not been communicated effectively enough for you to learn it. If you are thinking it, there will be other people who are wondering the same, so always ask.
Gain experience in an actual practice, they are structured, and nurtured to allow you to develop as a professional individual, you will learn so much from this environment. Should you have a question, and your employment mentor cannot assist you, seek knowledge from colleagues, everyones experience is different, this allows you to understand the profession further.
PEDR is an online platform devised by the RIBA as a recording platform for students to log their practical experience in the workplace, and their professional development within their careers. This log is an integral part of your education, and it counts towards the professional qualification to become an architect.
I cannot stress it enough, that these logs are vital relationship between you, the employer, and the school of architecture. Ensure you are completing these every quarter, with the support of your employment mentor from your workplace, which I would recommend you identify at the earliest opportunity after starting work. This is vital for your career progression.
I would also ensure that you understand the full RIBA work stages, along with both traditional and design and built contracts, site progression meetings, these are vital steps for your progression in your career.
When I embarked upon my professional career there were many challenges to face, namely the often-unhealthy environment that some architectural practices can press upon their employees and the discrimination that can be prevalent within the built industry.
When I started out, I soon learned that graduate students like myself, where offered very little in terms of career progression and no PEDR development. For me, this simply wasn’t ethical, nor was it conducive to a vibrant and progressive industry that thrives from new talent and produces innovative, yet valuable work. As a result, Architecture North was born.
Building Architecture North
Starting my own business wasn’t easy, and it still isn’t. My first year was full of uncertainty, however, when the RIBA contacted me to renew my membership, I saw my opportunity to utilise the RIBA resources and gain some much-needed insight on how to run a successful business. That year, I attended every CPD event that I could, and it is the excellent advice and information that I gained from these events that enabled me to push my business forward.
Now managing a small team, Architecture North has been lucky to be able to work on a number of large, and exciting, projects, whilst maintaining a working environment that is inclusive, inspiring, and creative for all. A large part of AN’s raison d’etre is also focusing on creating new programs, seminars, and CPD events for the wider industry to attend, and the practice frequently opens up its doors to allow guests; who range from students through to clients, engineers, and architects, to interact, collaborate and learn from each other whilst building upon each other’s success.
Architecture North was essentially established to promote an inclusive and ethical standard within the built environment, architecture and education, and that is exactly what the practice continues to strive for. As a young practice, still in its relative infancy, it can be tough for the company to meet the increasingly tough criteria for expressions of interest and match against established, heavy-weight competitors when pitching for work. However, with the established and well-nurtured working relationships I had with previous clients and architects, Architecture North has been able to position itself in the market place as an architectural practice that promotes good, ethical design within private, residential work, and is always on the lookout for like-minded clients that share in the company’s passion for inspirational, ethical, economic and practical design values.
Looking to the future, and the work that we’re doing with RIBA Future Architects, it is of the utmost importance that we ensure ethical standards throughout the profession and continue to create a network and community for future and emerging architects.
RIBA Future Architects initiative is imperative in establishing awareness for the fact that students and early career professionals have an important voice and critical role to play in the future of architecture and it is our duty to nourish and develop these voices, whilst also ensuring that the right education and opportunities are available to the next generation.
Whilst we are all entering a period of uncertainty, these may be unprecedented times, but by working together, collaborating, and staying true to our raison d’etre we shall emerge from this, stronger and more united than ever. To steal the words of a little-known industry heavyweight:
"If you weren't an optimist, it would be impossible to be an architect." - Lord Norman Foster
If you’d like to chat with us about any of the educational or business advice mentioned in this blog, then please do not hesitate to get in touch, we’d love to hear from you.
Stay home, stay safe.