Hi, I’m Sonia Nicolson
British Chartered Architect, Former University Senior Lecturer & Creative Mentor
I help architecture students build confidence in hand drawing and design, so they can stand out, impress their tutors, and enjoy their studies without the overwhelm.
But my journey here wasn’t a straight line.
Who I help
If you are:
An architecture or interior design student who wants to feel confident from day one
A woman in design returning after a break or burnout
Someone who wants to rebuild creative confidence through drawing and design
…you are in the right place.
How I Got Into Architecture (Even After Struggling in School)
I didn’t grow up dreaming of being an architect. I struggled through school and found my way into design by studying Interior Spatial Design at college. Determined to prove myself, I earned a place at university and later received a scholarship for Academic Excellence, completing my postgraduate studies in Japan under renowned architect Shinichi Ogawa.
After graduating, I returned to the UK, became a registered Architect with the ARB, and entered the profession just as the 2008 recession hit.
Building a Design School in India & Falling in Love With Teaching
At 29, I took a leap, moving to India to help establish a new campus for a Singaporean design school. As Senior Lecturer, later promoted to Academic Director, I taught Interior & Architectural Design, and fell in love with education and entrepreneurship. That’s when I started my first blog, Layoutlines.
Returning to the UK, I became Head of 1st Year Interior Architecture at a leading Arts University, guiding students through residential, commercial, and cultural design projects. I also worked with the university’s recruitment team and as an academic representative for the British Council, speaking in India, Thailand, and Nepal.
ARB Chartered Architect - Former Head of First Year Interior Architecture - British Council Academic Speaker - FHEA Fellow
Burnout, A Brave Relocation & Starting Again in Iceland
Despite the success, I was exhausted. Endless marking, admin, and international travel left me drained. Then, during a weekend home in Edinburgh for a hen party, I met a Viking named Ingimar. A million FaceTime calls later, I followed my heart and moved to Iceland.
Reykjavik Sketcher - How a Side Project Became a Business
I left academia behind and picked up a sketchbook. I began drawing the charming, corrugated-iron homes of Reykjavik and sharing them on Instagram under the hashtag #ReykjavikSketcher. People began asking to buy my prints, so I opened an online shop and started taking commissions.
At the same time, I launched an online course to help students build architecture and art school portfolios. This soon grew into a full resource library of tutorials, downloads, and creative tools.
Why I Teach What I Teach Today
I’m a full-time entrepreneur, wife, and Mum to two bilingual kids, Mia (2018) and Angus (2021). I run a creative business that blends everything I love: drawing, design, teaching, and mentoring the next generation of architects.
I believe creativity is a superpower and that even in the age of AI, hand drawing and design skills are what set students apart. Through sketching, storytelling, and design, I help you build the confidence to thrive in architecture school and beyond.
Today, this is how I help you:
Courses that teach the skills schools expect but rarely teach
1:1 mentoring for students who want guidance, clarity and honest feedback
Free and paid resources to help you sketch, present and build creative confidence
Ready to start architecture school with confidence - and impress your tutors from day one?
Explore the courses and coaching options, or reach out - I’d love to support you.
“Sonia’s story made me feel like I wasn’t too late to start again. She helped me reconnect with my creativity after years of burnout, and for the first time in ages, I feel confident in my design work again.”
1:1 Coaching Client, Interior Designer
My Qualifications
Professional Memberships & Licenses
Registered Architect, 2009 - Architects Registration Board (ARB)
Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, 2015 (FHEA)
Academic Member, Society of British & International Design, 2014 (SBID)
Academic Qualifications
RIBA Part III, 2009
Postgraduate Diploma in Architecture, 2007 (Japan scholarship year, 2008)
BA (Hons) Architecture, 2004
Advanced Diploma in Interior Spatial Design, 2002
Professional Development & Certifications
Complete Life Coaching Certification Masterclass, 2025 (in progress)
Certified in “7 Habits of Highly Effective People”, 2023
