our services
Sonia Nicolson | Chartered Architect & Former University Lecturer helping students and women in design master hand drawing and build creative careers.
Guidance, Mentorship & Design Packages
I’m Sonia Nicolson, a Chartered Architect and Former University Lecturer based in Reykjavík, Iceland, supporting students, creatives, and women in design to build confidence, strengthen their portfolios, and develop creative careers rooted in purpose and freedom.
My services are designed to meet you where you are in your journey, whether you’re preparing a university architecture portfolio, returning to your creative roots, or building a design business that truly works for your life. Through my Power Hour and Creative Confidence Coaching, I help you find clarity, overcome self-doubt, and take bold, confident steps forward. The Portfolio Confidence Review™ gives tailored, in-depth feedback to elevate your work and help you stand out in applications or interviews.
If you’re seeking professional design expertise, the Virtual Design Package and Consultation Packages offer creative support for architectural or interior design projects, while the Architectural Survey (Iceland) and Hand-Drawn Interior & Architecture Package bring a personal, crafted touch to every drawing.
For women in architecture and design, my Mentorship Programme provides guidance, accountability, and real-world insight into building a sustainable, balanced creative career.
Each service is designed to combine architectural knowledge with creativity, confidence, and heart - helping you grow the skills, mindset, and vision to design and build a life you love.
Portfolio Confidence Review™
Portfolio Confidence Review™
Professional Feedback for Architecture & Design Students who want to stand out
If you are applying to university, internships, or jobs, your portfolio is the most important part of your application - and it is the first thing that can make or break your chances. This review gives you clear, professional guidance from an Architect and former University Lecturer so you can improve your portfolio before you submit it, not after.
I have reviewed hundreds of student portfolios worldwide, and I know exactly what tutors and admissions panels look for, and what quietly gets dismissed.
Why most portfolios fail
Most students aren’t taught how to build a strong portfolio. Pages are often overcrowded, layouts are weak, and the story is unclear. The Portfolio Confidence Review™ fixes that with targeted, personalised feedback so you know exactly what to change and why.
What you will leave with
You will walk away knowing:
What works
What doesn’t
What to change to stand out confidently in applications
Students typically say the same thing after watching their video review - “I finally know what to do.”
How it works - The REVIEW™ Method
R - Relevance: Show the right projects for your goal
E - Expression: Reveal your thinking and creative voice
V - Visuals: Strong layouts, clean presentation, clear hierarchy
I - Impact: Every page has a purpose, not filler
E - Execution: Refine consistency, clarity, and detail
W - Wow Factor: Add the polish that sets you apart
What’s Included
✔ Full video review (20–30 minutes of tailored recorded feedback)
✔ Clear action points on what to fix and how to improve
✔ Suggestions to strengthen layouts, drawings, and storytelling
✔ Feedback from a Chartered Architect & former Lecturer with 15+ years’ experience
✔ Confidence that your portfolio reflects your true potential
Investment
Portfolio Confidence Review™ - $195
Review + 30-minute Zoom call for questions + next steps - $295
If your interview or submission is approaching, this review gives you clarity before you present, so you can apply with confidence instead of doubt.
Refunds are not available once the service has been delivered.
Don’t have a portfolio yet?
If you are looking to build a portfolio, please see our Portfolio Preparation Course.
