The value of a UWA degree

In my final year of study at UWA, I completed a semester with Professor Geoffrey London at the School of Design. That particular semester presented me with a great set of tools that would transfer to my future workplace and, importantly, open doors for me interstate. There is a very strong culture and continuity at the University of Western Australia, with some key staff having been former students. As an undergraduate I was lucky enough to be given insight into their professional experiences spanning over 30, 40 and 50 years. I have a lot of time for people who have ‘been there and done that’. Other people’s mistakes and successes are very eye-opening.

Since graduating with my Bachelor's degree in Environmental Design and having gained a number of valuable skills from my mentors, I was given the opportunity to pursue a job I'd had my eyes on for quite some time.

I was offered a position with a renowned multidisciplinary design studio and within two weeks I found myself on a plane headed for Melbourne. My degree taught me the key fundamentals of the design process, design thinking and, importantly, collaboration. These would transfer easily to a work-place environment. I chose later to transfer my studies to the University of Melbourne and complete a Master of Architecture. UWA has a strong affiliation with a number of universities around the country, providing people like me the opportunity to pursue study within another institution yet gain credit at my home university. Placing yourself in unknown territory is beneficial for your learning and self-development and I would highly recommend current students take the leap and follow a similar path.

Architecture is something that provides the everyday city dweller with an opportunity to explore diverse spaces that can influence our thinking, emotions and may even challenge our ideas. Architecture can be public or it can be very personal. I have been involved in the design and documentation of the more personal side to architecture, liaising with clients to create for them their dream homes. A home that reflects who they are and showcases their identity through built form. Its my goal to continue this and to create something our clients are proud of. The service that I, and many of my colleagues, provide offers something that trumps the monotonous project home. I strongly believe that architecture is being recognised and celebrated more now than it has ever been, particularly with the introduction of Perth’s now very popular Open House, thanks to the very talented and infinitely dedicated Carly Barret. It is our responsibility as architects and designers to continue the trend of good architecture and give the public confidence that what we do is enriching and importantly rewarding on a personal and public scale.

Putting pen to paper is definitely a strong aspect of this industry. Seeing a few lines on a page being translated into a three-dimensional object is priceless. Over some time I have been lucky enough to witness a variety of built work, whether it be in Melbourne or Perth, and the feeling of satisfaction never gets old. Seeing the face of a client light up and watching them take a step back to appreciate what lies in front of them comes close to beating it. Client liaison at very early stages of engagement is another interesting aspect to this particular line of work. Getting to know who they are, what they do, what their hobbies are and what makes them... simply them. It's great fun. The challenge from here on is to translate this data into something graphic but not entirely resolved. Big picture stuff. The trick is to not worry about where your new outdoor dining set is going to go. It’s a response to the site, to your brief and the introduction of ideas. There is no limit to it, only a limit to the number of clients willing to take this leap of faith.

About Zac

Zac is a graduate of Architecture with over 5 years experience in construction, design and architecture in the Melbourne and Perth metropolitan regions. He has been involved in the design and implementation of hospitality, residential, commercial and multi-residential projects.