October 14, 2025

So You Want to Be an Architect: The Ultimate Guide for High School Students

October 14, 2025/ Sonia Nicolson

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.

September 17, 2024

So You Want To Study Architecture

September 17, 2024/ Sonia Nicolson

As someone who has spent over 15 years immersed in architecture as a practising architect and a university lecturer, I’ve had the privilege of guiding thousands of students through their interior and architectural education. In my opinion, becoming an architect is one of the most rewarding journeys you can undertake but it also demands a lot of time, hard work, caffeine, creativity, resilience, determination and strategic planning.

September 20, 2021

10 Entrepreneurial Side Hustles for Designers & Architects

September 20, 2021/ Sonia Nicolson

Looking to earn extra income from your creative skills? Here are 10 side hustles for designers and architects, from teaching online to selling digital products, plus how to turn them into a sustainable business through coaching.

June 08, 2016

The Complete Guide to Studying Architecture at University

June 08, 2016/ Sonia Nicolson

A comprehensive guide for future architecture and design students. Learn how to choose the right course, prepare your portfolio, fund your studies, and thrive at university.

May 04, 2016

10 Reasons to Study Architecture and Build a Creative Career

May 04, 2016/ Sonia Nicolson

Thinking about studying architecture? This article explores ten compelling reasons to pursue a career in architecture, from creative freedom and global opportunities to shaping the spaces where people live and thrive. Written by an experienced architect and interior designer, it’s a must-read for aspiring students.

April 26, 2016

5 Reasons to Pursue a Career in Design: Insights from an Architect and Interior Designer

April 26, 2016/ Sonia Nicolson

5 reasons to become a designer

If you’re considering a career in design, whether it’s in architecture, interior design, or related fields, you’ve come to the right place. As an architect and interior designer with years of experience, I’m thrilled to share with you the top five reasons why embracing a career in design can be immensely rewarding and fulfilling.

Design is more than just aesthetics—it’s about problem-solving, creativity, and shaping environments that improve lives. I have always had an interest in design and the arts - drawing and making things so naturally, I took Art & Design at school, and my path to becoming a designer started.

Here are five compelling reasons why diving into the world of design might be your perfect fit:

1/ Do what you love

I love design, it’s that simple. It’s who I am, it’s what I think about. I see, analyze and critic it all the time. I surrounded myself with things that inspired me, and I found new ideas and projects everywhere.

2/ Think outside the box

I get to express my creativity in my work and what I do. I work with other like-minded, creative people. We collaborate, we problem-solve, we encourage and push each other, but most importantly, we think outside the box.

3/ Never stop learning

I am constantly learning. I design, redesign, test, redesign…It’s not easy, and it’s never 9-5 but I design things that are made, or built, and will hopefully be there for a very long time.

4/ Designing for the world around us, the spaces we live and work in

My job involves a lot of critical thinking and an understanding of psychology. I design for the end-user so it’s not about colour or fluffy decor but I design out spaces; homes and workplaces. It directly affects people’s daily lives.

5/ Give back with a passion for Design

I’m an Architect but I teach too so I get to give back. I’m truly passionate about what I do and love working with students and young designers in their studies and projects.