What does architecture look like before it becomes architecture?
Last week, our Schools Sector Lead, Victoria Slater, returned to Fitzalan High School – an award-winning project we were proud to help shape – to speak to sixth form students as part of the Careers Wales programme.
But this wasn’t just a careers talk.
It was a chance to demystify the process of designing and constructing something the students use every day.
Victoria took students back to the beginning – from early sketches and concepts through iterations and decisions to the very space they were sitting in, right then.
That moment – when students realise “this didn’t just appear… someone designed it, step by step” – is where curiosity starts.
And maybe even careers begin.
Because architecture isn’t just about buildings.
It’s about thinking, questioning, testing, refining.
And ultimately, creating spaces that are full of life and energy.
For us, that’s the real reward.
Not just designing a building, but coming back years later and seeing it used exactly as intended. Lived in. Enjoyed. Filled with people.
That’s when design becomes something more.
That’s when it enhances life.
Big thanks to Adrian Cole of Careers Wales and Cardiff Council for having us back!
You can find more information on the project here:
FITZALAN HIGH SCHOOL, CARDIFF
Fitzalan High School – Creating a heart space for the school
Fitzalan High School Wins RICS Wales Award
