Today you will find out more about Rachael, a talented Part II Architectural Assistant who joined our team last month.
Rachael studied at The Scott Sutherland School of Architecture – Robert Gordon University, gaining her Master’s degree in 2020.
As a Part 1 Architectural Assistant – Oliver and Robb Architects in Dunfermline, worked on a range of projects from private home extensions through to large scale commercial and housing projects.
Joined ACA in Nov 2020 as a Part II Architectural Assistant. Rachael is being mentored and supported at ACA in Part III training to become an ARB registered Architect. Attracted to the firm by emphasis on the principles of sustainability and material responsibility.
She is interested in the use of digital design technology and the importance of the sensory experience of buildings and spaces.
Rachael continues to live in the historically significant conservation area of Limekilns/Charlestown and values close local connections.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PURSUE A CAREER IN ARCHITECTURE?
I was encouraged to pursue a career doing something that I enjoyed, it seemed to offer the opportunity for me to blend interests in art, science and construction. Architecture is a constant, present in all cultures and societies, affecting us all at multiple levels.
Architectures awareness of intersectionality, it’s association with the structures organising and managing our individual and social lives make it a powerful tool for improving our lives. It becomes physical representation of who we are as people, as society.
QUICK SUMMARY OF YOUR CAREER BEFORE YOU JOINED ACA
2014
Course Certified in Mortar Analysis Explained & Course Certified in Specifying Mortars for Repair, Restoration and New Build.
2014-2020
Masters Degree in Architecture from The Scott Sutherland School of Architecture. Robert Gordon University.
2017-2018
Part I Architectural Assistant- Oliverand Robb Architects. Delivered drawings, renders and presentations, with skilled use of software, on projects in a diverse range of building types: private and affordable housing, care homes, education, retail and leisure.
2019
Nominated for RIBA Dissertation Medal. ‘Gender Inequality as a Function of Criticism in Architecture’.
Co- President, 5710 Architectural Society at Scott Sutherland.
2020
Active member of the Judging Panel for the Aberdeenshire Architectural and Landscape Design Awards 2020.
Perception that ACA philosophy and values aligned with my own. The focus on implementing principles of sustainability and material responsibility. Emphasis on self build which places the individual and organisations at the centre of what we do as architects. Values the needs and interests of the client first.
WHAT, IN YOUR OPINION, ARE ACA'S STRENGTHS AS AN ARCHITECTURAL PRACTICE?
In my final year research, I undertook research on the way our senses influence our experience of spaces and places, this led to a better understanding about the importance of communication throughout all stages of work in designing and building , to be able to fully realise the clients aims, this is a strength at ACA. Understanding the way clients live and what their needs are is fundamental to achieving success in building
DO YOU ENJOY DESIGNING ONE-OFF RESIDENTIAL HOMES?
I do! In the uniqueness of our experiences, there is always the opportunity and challenge in being able to collaborate with clients to create and build the meaningful places and spaces in their lives.
IF YOU WEREN'T AN ARCHITECT, WHAT WOULD YOU BE DOING?
I have some interest in working within sports coaching, having grown up as a competitive swimmer and competed at the 2014 commonwealth games, I have a keen interest in sport.
DO YOU PURSUE YOUR ARCHITECTURAL INTERESTS OUTSIDE OF WORK IN ANY WAY?
When I am not at work, I enjoy combining travel and photography. I enjoy hand crafting wood and pyrography. I am interested in design details, interesting use of materials and design features e.g. complex brick work, carvings or sculptural elements. I enjoy watching and learning about construction on Tree Houses and Cabins.
WHAT DO YOU DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME?
In my spare time I enjoy the outdoors, camping with friends all over the country. This usually includes all sorts of activities on water, paddle-boarding, swimming, surfing, kayaking.
If you have any questions for Rachael feel free to contact her on rachael@acarchitects.biz.
