Architecture Student's Booklist

Whether you're heading to an Open Day, had your interview, got your place, or already started on a course, you will need to start thinking about the dreaded book list, and if you will actually spend any of your hard-earned cash purchasing any of them. My advice is if you have some pennies to spare, take advantage of this time and money to invest in the basic book list. I suggest the following books mainly for Interior Design/Architecture courses but you can adapt if you're studying another art and design course.

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Library

Universities and Colleges have fantastic Libraries, with Librarians who are not only friendly but can and will, assist you in finding out what it is you are after. There are loads of books, e-books, magazines and journals, online links, and tutorials, plus they often have a large selection of DVDs and videos from educational documentaries to inspirational movies. And, do not forget your local library too, they are perfect for local historical information, maps, old photos, etc. 

Books

If you are planning to study the interior, be it Interior Design or Interior Architecture and Design, I have listed some great books to help get you started and feed into your studies. The start of term is when students tend to have a little bit of money and therefore there is far more chance they will spend it on course supplies than any other student spending. With this in mind, I recommended the following four books:

1. Ching, F D K. Architectural Graphics, Van Nostrand & Reinhold

2. Littlefield, D. (2012) Metric Handbook: Planning & Design Data, London: Routledge

3. Ross, A., Hatreed, J. & Baden-Powell, C. (2011) Architects Pocket Book, London: Architectural Press

4. Architecture For Humanity. (2006) Design Like You Give A Damn, Thames & Hudson

5. Pile, J. (2013) A History of Interior Design, London: Laurence King

6. Plunkett, D. (2010) Construction and Detailing for Interior Design, Laurence King

7. Brown, R. (2012) Materials and Interior Design, Laurence King

8. McLeod V. (2012)Detail in Contemporary Residential Architecture, Laurence King [with CD of drawings] full series also available

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PDF downloads:

Metric Handbook | Architect's Pocket Book 

Most of the books listed above will be used by both Interior Design and Architecture students alike, and are often a good investment as they will stay with you from student life to the working world. 

Portfolio Requirements For Art and Design Subjects

Tips and advice from a former university senior lecturer on Art & Design student portfolios

It's interview time for many applicants and students at Universities and Art Colleges across the UK. This is a nerve-wracking time, and many of you will be preparing your portfolios in the run-up to your interview - hoping to wow the course team and secure a place on your selected course.

I have met with and interviewed hundreds of students in the UK and internationally, all looking to be offered a place on their selected degree or MA. I know what should be in your portfolio and am about to share my 5 top tips from an interviewer’s perspective.

If you are preparing your portfolio or starting to think about it for the following academic year, here are my 5 top tips to help you get ready and build the perfect portfolio for application to University or Art school.

1. Show off your best work

Most creative Universities and art Colleges are looking for talented students who are inspired and ready to further their skills; it's that simple. The best way to show off your skills and interests is in the portfolio, so fill it with your most creative, best work, and work that reflects you as an Artist/Designer.

Select 15-20 of the best pieces of work you have; you will likely only have time and need to show 10-15. Include mixed media and a variety of topics if you are applying for a foundation course or first year (and don’t have course subject-specific examples of work, i.e interior design projects or images).

When selecting work, ask yourself:

• Who is the portfolio for, and will you be there in person to talk through it?

• What have they asked to see, if they have?

• What are your strengths?

• What are your best projects/creations?

• How best can you visually communicate them?

• How best can you verbally communicate them?

The academic (teacher) looking at your portfolio will be looking to see what subject (topic) and medium (pen, punk, paint, etc) you have experience with, and how you have produced your work. They may ask you how long each piece took and why you created them so be ready with responses to these questions.

What to include:

• Drawings and sketches (show variety and narrative, include different techniques)

• A sketchbook or particular pages from a sketchbook (lay the book open and take a well-lit photo from above)

• Still life and observation drawings (unfinished work is fine, often more interesting)

• Paintings (watercolours, acrylic, oil, mixed medium - include your best work only)

• Ink and pencil drawings/pastel work

• Digital images (poster designs, branding projects)

• Photography

• 3D work, models, and sculptures (these will likely be too large to bring, so take some very clear, well-lit photographs and try to show scale by photographing with a pen or pencil in the shot, but not distracting)

2. Text, but to the point

If you wish to support your portfolio images with a short explanation, that’s fine, but keep it short - less is more. Try not to be distracted from your work. Summarise the narrative (story) behind your work in one or two sentences - (title, medium, explanation of work)

3. Create a direction/focus

Focus the direction of your portfolio on the subject you are applying for (architecture, interior design, etc). Show key pieces that highlight your interest and knowledge/expertise so far:

• ARCHITECTURE - focus on buildings, materials, forms, models, perspectives, sketches, etc

• FASHION - figure drawing, model sketches, designs, samples of material, and so on

• GRAPHICS - branding, logos, typography, posters, photography, etc

4. A physical/electronic submission of a Portfolio

There are many different ways of submitting your portfolio; this will depend on whether you are attending the interview or not. Make sure to check what is required of you.

If you will be attending an interview, then we suggest making life a little easier and carrying a small A3 portfolio in a protective folder (we know many of your pieces may be larger, but A3 is your friend). A3 is a good size to carry around and present on a desk or table. It’s easy to store, cheaper to print if replicating and way more user-friendly when moving around.

If you live abroad or will not be attending an interview, you will be asked to submit your portfolio electronically. You can email a PDF, use Dropbox, or we recommend using the website wetransfer.com - it will transfer a large file without compromising the size and lets you know when it’s been delivered, and opened. 

It’s also a good idea to start creating an online portfolio, so look into Behance or create your site on a platform like Squarespace 

5. The interview

Since your grades likely got you an interview, the academic interviewer will use your portfolio to base their decision on. No pressure.

Obviously, your grades, previous experience, internships, awards, etc, are an important part of the application process, but the portfolio is key - it can even raise your chances of an offer sometimes.

In the interview, you will be asked to present your portfolio. Go through it slowly and calmly, explaining the following:

• What each piece is and what the story behind it/brief was

• If it was a school piece or independent work

• What inspired/motivated you

• Why did you use the medium (paint, ink, clay)

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Yes, it’s a nerve-racking experience,

Yes, you’ll likely have to do it a few times.

Yes, you’ll get used to it.

Be proud of your work.

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Final note: Remember, the school you’re applying to has given you an interview because they want to meet you and see your work, so show it off. Try to enjoy the experience. Ask them questions too. This is the next 3+ years of your life, and you want to make sure you’re on the right track, at the right school, and learning from the right people.

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Good luck for your Art & Design portfolio and application

Interior Architecture: Recommended Magazines and Journals

Interior Architecture: Recommended Magazines and Journals

When I worked as an academic, part of my role was to write courses, set project briefs, lead tutorial groups, and support final-year students with their dissertations and final major projects. To do this well, I had to stay up to date with current trends, technologies, building projects, and research. That meant spending a lot of time in libraries and online—reading, watching documentaries, skimming journals, and following competitions.

As a student, building this habit early will give you a huge advantage. Staying connected to the wider industry will not only inspire your projects but also deepen your understanding of design culture and practice.

Over the next few posts, I’ll share my go-to resources for students of interior architecture. Today, we’ll start with my top picks for magazines and journals, perfect for sparking ideas and staying current.

Magazines & Journals

Kick off your design research by immersing yourself in industry news and visual inspiration. International publications offer a fresh perspective, so pick one up when you travel. Some of my favourites are:

• Frame

• Wallpaper

• ELLE Décor (consider subscribing for regular updates)

Online Journals & Websites

Digital resources are just as valuable for staying informed:

• dezeen.com | cutting-edge design news and features

• inhabitat.com | sustainable design and innovation

• bdonline.com | architecture and construction news

Start exploring these now, and you’ll quickly see how they can shape your ideas and help you think like a professional designer.

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Which Design journals do you read?

Creating Traditional Prints From 3D Printed Blocks

We recently ran a workshop that encouraged participants to combine 2D and 3D thinking, blending traditional skills with new technologies.

The brief was to design a 2D pattern using 3D computer software. We worked in Rhino with Grasshopper, experimenting with planes to create patterns with varying depth and structure. Once the designs were ready, we exported them as files for 3D printing using our Ultimaker printers.

These 3D-printed blocks, created with cutting-edge technology, were then taken into the print room for the next stage. Here, we swapped modern tools for heritage craft, using 17th-century printing presses to transform our blocks into 2D prints – a unique meeting of past and present, as you can see below.

It was a fascinating exploration of processes, skills, and technologies – one that we hope will inspire students to experiment with both the print room and 3D printers to create truly unique work.

India: The British Council Architecture Mission

I’m still feeling the effects of jet lag – it hits harder with age – but I wanted to share a little about my recent trip to India. A week ago, I returned from a three-week journey through northern India with the British Council, representing my university to promote the study of Architecture.

Our visit took us to various schools of architecture, where we delivered talks on our research and areas of interest. We also met with faculty to discuss potential collaborations – from virtual studios to student and faculty exchanges – exploring ways we can work together more effectively.

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I started my trip in Delhi at Pearl Academy, a school I’ve visited before, and we already have some exciting projects in the works with them, including an upcoming exhibition. I had a little time to myself in the city to revisit some of my favourite New Delhi landmarks – Humayun’s Tomb for a quick restoration update and a spot of sketching, Khan Market for shopping and eating, and Connaught Place for, well, more food but also some wandering to soak up the street life and atmosphere.

Next came Mumbai, where I met with the British Council for their Architecture Mission alongside three other academics from British universities. We were representing the Architecture, Engineering, and Interiors subject areas at our institutions, speaking at nine schools across Mumbai and Pune. We visited four schools in Mumbai before heading to Pune to visit the remaining three.

Mumbai is the busiest city I’ve ever experienced – possibly also the largest, or at least it feels that way because of its density. The schools we visited were in the city centre, yet it could take over an hour to travel between them. Some campuses were theory-heavy, with traditional marble-clad lecture halls that felt both grand and a little like swimming pools. Others were strikingly modern, with green lecture theatres built into the landscape and designed to respond to sunlight, heat, and ventilation.

It was difficult to gauge the overall level of student work, as most keep their projects and no central record is kept. Still, some schools were incredibly open to collaboration and research. One stood out in particular, with corridors lined with student work – cladding system prototypes, cultural installations, interactive models, and more.

Pune was new to me, and while it felt more laid back, my schedule was anything but. My view of the city was limited to hotel rooms, bustling streets seen from a car window, classrooms, and then back to the hotel again. Two of the schools we visited here were female-only and had huge numbers of students studying architecture – something that truly inspired me. I gave a lecture to a room packed with engaged young designers who asked thoughtful questions and listened intently. Afterwards, I handed out one business card and was immediately surrounded by eager students wanting to connect and share their projects.

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A jam-packed schedule meant the days began to blur together, each one filled with travel, meetings, and lectures. At times it felt repetitive, but the students truly made the visit worthwhile, with their thoughtful discussions and inspiring examples of work.

When it was time to leave Pune – yes, in an auto-rickshaw, suitcase and all – I made a special detour to visit Sangam for the night, one of the four World Centres for Girl Guiding. It was the perfect pause in my journey to reflect on my travels, the people I had met, and the exciting projects ahead.

I had visited Pax Lodge in London as a young Guide many years ago, but many of my guiding friends had spoken about Sangam, so being there felt especially meaningful. The centre was peaceful and welcoming, with friendly volunteers who immediately made me feel at home. Some had been there for months, others had just arrived, but all were engaged in the same mission – volunteering at local schools and community projects, while learning Hindi, yoga, cooking, and so much more.

Behind the main building, a large campground hosts local Indian Guides and Brownies for camps and jamborees. One was due to take place soon, and I could imagine the energy and excitement it would bring. It was the perfect end to a busy and inspiring trip.

My Message To Students and Graduates

Life as a design student can be intense. Deadlines, presentations, reports, retakes, and the dreaded “computer crash at 2 am” moment. Add in calls from family when you have no time to talk, living on a budget, and you might wonder: why do we put ourselves through it?

Because it’s an investment in your future, your skills, your personal growth, your confidence, and even in the friendships that may last a lifetime. Yes, it’s hard. But it’s also exciting, inspiring, and full of moments you’ll look back on with pride.

My Education Journey

I studied Architecture for the full seven years. I moved away from home, pushed myself out of my comfort zone, and met friends who are now part of my professional network. My degree years were a mix of socialising, studying, and late nights in the studio, and I graduated proud of my 2:1. After a year’s work experience in a large practice, I used my savings to travel through Asia and Australia before starting my master’s degree.

Learning in Two Worlds

My degree was at a technical university, but my postgraduate studies took me to a creative art school. I was awarded a scholarship to complete my master’s in Japan, an experience that changed me completely. Living and studying abroad pushes you to grow in ways you can’t imagine. In Japan, I learned more about myself, my abilities, and my adaptability than I ever would have if I’d stayed in the UK.

The Unexpected Turns

Returning home, I found a great job in an architecture office, thinking, “This will do for now.” A few years later, I qualified as an Architect, packed up my desk, and moved to India.

Here’s the thing: when I was a student, I thought I’d work as an architect for the next 20–30 years. I imagined teaching at a university would happen after retirement. I never expected to be doing it in my 30s, loving it as much as I do now.

To My Students

Many of my students are either on their first work placement or finishing their final year projects. Some have a clear path ahead, others don’t, and that’s okay. Your career won’t be a straight line. It will have twists, detours, and surprises. The key is to stay open, adaptable, and ready to make the most of every opportunity.

10 Tips for Students & Graduates in Design and Architecture

1. Enjoy your time at university | it will probably only happen once.

2. Soak in the details | the laughs, the lectures, the study trips, even the tough days.

3. Make your work your own | show your personality through it.

4. Fake it ‘til you make it | you’ll learn more in the process than you expect.

5. Stay open-minded | don’t let your CV dictate all your decisions.

6. Think outside the box | and live there too. Travel, explore, seek adventure.

7. Document your journey | photos, sketches, journals. You’ll treasure them later.

8. Stay inspired | read, listen, talk, and share ideas with others.

9. Trust your path | it will work out, even if it doesn’t look how you imagined.

10. Aim higher than “fine” | if you want more, go out and make it happen..

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Final Thought: Be proud of what you’ve achieved. Keep doing more. Inspire others. And if you know someone studying right now, send them a note, a parcel, or even just a few words of encouragement; it can mean the world.