British Architect, Educator & Urban Sketcher in Iceland

Hi, I’m Sonia, a British Architect living in Reykjavik, Iceland, where I help students and creative entrepreneurs design fulfilling careers in Interior Design, Architecture, and Urban Sketching.

But my journey into architecture wasn’t a straight line.

From Struggling Student to Chartered Architect

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. 

Academia, India, and My First Business

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.

Burnout & a Life-Changing Weekend

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.

Starting Over in Reykjavik

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.

Life Today

I’m now a full-time entrepreneur, wife, and Mum to two bilingual kids - Mia Elisabet (2018) and Angus Óðinn (2021). I run a creative business that blends everything I love: drawing, design, teaching, and helping others build a life that works for them.

I believe in creativity as a superpower and in helping women come back to themselves through sketching, storytelling, and design.

Work With Me

I’m always open to aligned opportunities, whether you’re looking for a speaker, podcast guest, collaborator, or someone to bring a hand-drawn perspective to your next project.

Here’s how I can contribute:

• Podcast guest or interviewee

• Article or feature contributor

• Keynote speaker or panellist

• Guest lecturer or visiting tutor

• External examiner

• Influencer partnerships & affiliate collaborations

Get in touch: hello@sonianicolson.com or visit my Contact Page

My Qualifications

Professional Memberships & Licenses

Architects Registration Board (ARB) – Registered Architect (since 2009)

Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) – 2015

Academic Member, Society of British & International Design (SBID) – 2014

Academic Qualifications

Postgraduate Diploma in Architecture – 2007 (Final year in Japan, 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