The Year I Studied Architecture in Japan
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Studying architecture in Japan changed how I see design, discipline, and drawing. Here’s how that experience shaped my creative journey.
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So You Want to Be an Architect: The Ultimate Guide for High School Students
/Thinking about studying architecture? Here’s everything I wish I’d known as a student - from subjects and skills to books, documentaries, and portfolio tips.
Read MoreFalling Out of Love with Architecture (And Finding My Way Back)
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There’s this idea that if you’re passionate enough, you’ll never fall out of love with architecture. That once you’ve chosen this path, you’ll follow it forever with certainty, with pride, with relentless motivation. But what happens when that passion fades? When the dream job isn’t what you imagined, when burnout creeps in, or when the industry doesn’t welcome you in the way you hoped?
Read MoreHow to Overcome Perfectionism and Start Drawing Freely
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Struggling with perfectionism in your sketching practice? Learn how to let go of the pressure to make every drawing perfect so you can enjoy the process, grow your skills, and fall in love with drawing again. Especially helpful for beginner urban sketchers and creatives.
Read MoreHow to Warm Up Before You Start Drawing: Simple Exercises to Boost Your Creative Confidence
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Feeling stuck or unsure where to begin with your architectural sketches or urban drawings? Warming up before you start drawing is a simple but powerful way to loosen your hand, spark creativity, and build confidence. In this post, I’ll share 5 easy warm-up exercises that anyone, beginners and experienced artists, can use to get into the flow and overcome that intimidating blank page.
Read MoreChoosing the Right Architectural Design Subject
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As someone who began their career studying interior design and went on to work as an architect and university lecturer, I’ve seen the built environment from multiple angles. Whether interior design, interior architectural design, architecture, or architectural technology - all offer unique opportunities, but choosing the right path depends on your interests, skills, and long-term career goals.
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About Sonia Nicolson
Sonia Nicolson is a British Chartered Architect (ARB) and Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA). As an Architect and Creative Educator based in Iceland, she helps students and designers build confidence in hand drawing, design, and portfolio skills.
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