In the latest in our series, we meet Architectural Assistant, Angelika, and find out about her eclectic passions for The Sims, architectural heritage and calligraphy!
1. What got you into architecture originally?
I used to love the game The Sims when I was young. I spent hours planning how a house would look, creating sketches of the plans on paper to then translate them into the game exactly how I wanted it to be. After finishing the “project”, I would finish the game and start another house plan. I was sure that I was playing the game as it was supposed to be played, only to learn at school that that was not necessarily the case! That is when I realised that I want to become an Architect. In any case, I have always been a creative person and my main hobby has always been drawing and exploring historical buildings surrounding my hometown in Poland.
2. Describe your role at LA
I joined Lees Associates as a Part II Architectural Assistant after completing my MArch degree at the Univesity of Strathclyde in Glasgow. Since joining the practice, I have worked on some incredible high-end residential projects. I assist in tasks such as producing drawing packages for planning, tender and construction, all under the supervision of the Project Architect.
3. Where do your particular passions, skills and interests lie?
I have always been interested in historical architecture and the possibilities of bringing built heritage back to life while still respecting the beauty, craftsmanship and history of the building. Additionally, throughout my education I explored different ways in which design affects people and how architecture could potentially improve the mental health and well-being of its users.
4. What do you enjoy about what you do?
I very much enjoy being able to learn something new every day and to develop myself. I enjoy working in a creative environment surrounded by incredibly talented people. Seeing how the practice works and how ideas are brought to life is inspiring and motivates me to continually become better at what I do, something that is integral to the LA culture.
5. What are your plans for the future?
My future goals are to further develop my technical skills and knowledge and gain the experience necessary to complete the RIBA Part III course and qualify as a Chartered and Registered Architect.
6. What do you get up to outside of the office?
I love learning, and particularly enjoy learning new languages, which are proving useful whilst travelling and learning about different cultures. I also enjoy doing calligraphy in my free time, which helps me to improve my focus and work on my patience!