Back to The Drawing Board

Send us Fan MailEver wondered what happens to your architecture job application after you hit send? In this candid conversation, we pull back the curtain on how small architecture practices really evaluate potential candidates and what actually gets you noticed—or immediately rejected.Drawing from years of experience reviewing hundreds of applications, we reveal why your portfolio typically carries more weight than your CV, how personality fit often trumps technical perfection, and what fatal application mistakes you might be making without realizing it. From the dreaded mass CC'd email that instantly signals lack of care to the questionable practice of self-rating skills on a five-star scale, we don't hold back on what makes employers cringe.Beyond the obvious dos and don'ts, we explore the deeper dynamics of small firm hiring: the unpredictable timing of job openings, the importance of showing who you are beyond your professional skills, and why being "teachable" might be your most valuable asset. Whether you're a recent graduate or an experienced professional looking to move to a smaller practice, this episode offers practical insights into crafting applications that truly connect with the humans who'll be reading them.For those applying to large corporate firms with automated screening systems, we highlight key differences in approach—because knowing your audience might be the most important application strategy of all. Listen in for an honest, sometimes humorous look at what employers are really thinking when they review your materials, and how to stand out in a sea of talented applicants for all the right reasons.Support the showbacktothedrawingboard.ukFollow us on IG: instagram.com/backtothedrawingboardigFollow us on FB: https://www.facebook.com/backtothdrawingboardBuy us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/backtothedrawingboardPrefer it as a Podcast? Look out for us on your favourite platformsPrefer it as a video? https://www.youtube.com/@backtothedrawingboard4115Want to get in touch: [email protected] by friend of the cast: https://on.soundcloud.com/bey4p

Send us Fan MailNavigating the architectural landscape can be tricky, especially when the implications of pricing unfold. We unpack the philosophy behind spending wisely while maintaining quality in architectural design, emphasizing the importance of research and understanding needs. • Importance of investing in quality design • Researching potential architects or designers • Recognizing the value of good tools and resources • Learning from past project experiences • Balancing client expectations and project reality • Collaboration with consultants to enhance designs • Clear communication about project requirements and budgetsSupport the showbacktothedrawingboard.ukFollow us on IG: instagram.com/backtothedrawingboardigFollow us on FB: https://www.facebook.com/backtothdrawingboardBuy us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/backtothedrawingboardPrefer it as a Podcast? Look out for us on your favourite platformsPrefer it as a video? https://www.youtube.com/@backtothedrawingboard4115Want to get in touch: [email protected] by friend of the cast: https://on.soundcloud.com/bey4p

Send us Fan MailCan love and architecture really coexist in harmony? Journey with us this Valentine's Day as we unravel the fascinating stories of couples who seamlessly blend their personal and professional lives in the world of design. Discover how my accountant wife, despite not having a background in architecture, plays an essential role in our business and why the myth of course mates ending up as lifelong partners isn't always true. You'll get a peek into our transition from Patreon to "Buy Me a Coffee," which marks a new chapter for us and adds a touch of humor to our love story.Our exploration leads us to the iconic Charles and Ray Eames, whose pioneering designs have left an everlasting impact on modern architecture. Get ready for a playful discussion about the cost and legacy of an Eames chair today, as well as a deep dive into the Eames House and its blend of functionality and aesthetics. We also pay homage to legendary couples like Charles Rennie Mackintosh and Margaret MacDonald Mackintosh, whose collaborations have shaped the course of design history. You'll hear about their artistic synergy and the cultural significance of their work.As we navigate through post-modern architecture, we highlight the influential duo of Robert Venturi and Denise Scott Brown and their insightful criticism in "Learning from Las Vegas." The episode wraps up with a nod to New Brutalism champions Peter and Alison Smithson and contemporary architects Sheila O'Donnell and John Tuomey. Learn how these visionaries balance groundbreaking design with respect for existing environments, and get inspired by their passion and creativity. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast or simply a romantic at heart, this episode offers a rich tapestry of stories that celebrate the intersection of love and architecture.Support the showbacktothedrawingboard.ukFollow us on IG: instagram.com/backtothedrawingboardigFollow us on FB: https://www.facebook.com/backtothdrawingboardBuy us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/backtothedrawingboardPrefer it as a Podcast? Look out for us on your favourite platformsPrefer it as a video? https://www.youtube.com/@backtothedrawingboard4115Want to get in touch: [email protected] by friend of the cast: https://on.soundcloud.com/bey4p

Send us Fan MailWe dive deep into the architectural wonders recognized in 2024 by RIBA and Arc Daily, exploring award-winning designs and their significance in sustainable development. Each project exemplifies innovation that harmonizes beauty and function, challenging conventional thinking in architecture.• Exploring Eavesdrop: a harmonious blend with the countryside • The Farm Workers House: integrated design and agricultural life • Spotlight on Peckham House: self-build and personal expression • Plus Henley Stable Block: renovation preserving heritage and sustainability • Lung Vai School: community-driven design and educational empowerment • Arc Daily highlights nature in urban environments with the Forest • Discussions on cultural significance with the Istanbul Modern Museum • The Yellow Mini Café: a connection between design and community • Reflecting on the essence of architectural excellence and awardsSupport the showbacktothedrawingboard.ukFollow us on IG: instagram.com/backtothedrawingboardigFollow us on FB: https://www.facebook.com/backtothdrawingboardBuy us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/backtothedrawingboardPrefer it as a Podcast? Look out for us on your favourite platformsPrefer it as a video? https://www.youtube.com/@backtothedrawingboard4115Want to get in touch: [email protected] by friend of the cast: https://on.soundcloud.com/bey4p

Send us Fan MailThis episode explores the challenging yet rewarding journey of PWS Architecture and Theo's university adventures over the past year, with highlights including a notable increase in project inquiries, shifts in project types, and changes in the team. We reflect on our achievements and personal challenges while looking ahead to ambitious plans for the future. • Detailed recap of 184 project inquiries• Breakdown of project types and notable commercial projects• Discussion of team dynamics during a busy year• Insights into personal challenges faced by staff • Future goals focusing on creativity and competitionSupport the showbacktothedrawingboard.ukFollow us on IG: instagram.com/backtothedrawingboardigFollow us on FB: https://www.facebook.com/backtothdrawingboardBuy us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/backtothedrawingboardPrefer it as a Podcast? Look out for us on your favourite platformsPrefer it as a video? https://www.youtube.com/@backtothedrawingboard4115Want to get in touch: [email protected] by friend of the cast: https://on.soundcloud.com/bey4p

Send us Fan MailEver wondered about the masterminds behind the majestic pyramids or the soaring skyscrapers that define city skylines? Our latest episode takes you through time, unraveling the history of architecture from the era of Imhotep to the present day, where architects blend creativity with rigorous engineering. We'll walk you through the ancient roots of the profession, spotlighting how legendary figures like Vitruvius and Palladio shaped the path for today's architects, who now navigate a labyrinth of design, engineering, and client expectations.It's a balancing act between aesthetics and practicality, a theme we revisit as we dissect the symbiotic relationship between architects and engineers. Hear stories of behind-the-scenes collaboration that result in some of the world's most iconic structures and how this partnership fuels both innovation and challenges. We also peel back the layers of interior design trends, revealing how architects and designers overcome obstacles in creating functional yet visually captivating spaces. From the complexities of kitchen layouts within home extensions to the adaptive reuse of historical buildings, the narrative weaves together the art and science of shaping spaces that define our lives.Looking ahead, we discuss the seismic shifts on the horizon for architecture and design. With sustainability no longer a buzzword but a necessity, our conversation pivots to the roles of retrofit assessors and the quest for carbon neutrality. We dive into how new technologies like BIM, 3D printing, and virtual reality are not just changing the game but expanding the playing field, offering architects and clients alike an immersive experience that could redefine the very essence of collaboration and creation. Join us as we forecast the trajectory of architectural innovation—a future where the tools may change, but the goal remains the same: to leave a lasting, positive mark on the world through design.Support the showbacktothedrawingboard.ukFollow us on IG: instagram.com/backtothedrawingboardigFollow us on FB: https://www.facebook.com/backtothdrawingboardBuy us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/backtothedrawingboardPrefer it as a Podcast? Look out for us on your favourite platformsPrefer it as a video? https://www.youtube.com/@backtothedrawingboard4115Want to get in touch: [email protected] by friend of the cast: https://on.soundcloud.com/bey4p

Send us Fan MailAs your seasoned travel companions, Theo and I whisk you away on an architect's dream journey, first landing in Barcelona where the spirals of Sagrada Familia beckon. We spin tales from our visit, painting a vivid image of Gaudí's masterpiece and how it skyrockets the joy of discovery to new heights. Our conversation steers towards the grid-lined streets of Barcelona, exploring how each corner converges on this unmistakable landmark, while sharing tips on dedicating full days to drink in the marvels of significant structures, like the modernist influence of Mies van der Rohe's Barcelona Pavilion.Then, let's swap the Mediterranean backdrop for the cool climes of Reykjavik, where Harpa concert hall's glass façade reflects the Icelandic sky. I'll recount the quirky details that make this city's architecture a feast for the senses, from fisherman's houses turned art havens to the old harbour's metamorphosis into a hotspot for culture vultures. Theo and I promise to leave no stone unturned, from the ethereal glow of the Northern Lights to the charm of the Sun Voyager sculpture, ensuring you're armed with anecdotes and insights for your own Icelandic escapade.To round off our episode, we muse over the nostalgic lanes of past travels while charting the map for future expeditions. We debate the merits of spontaneous jaunts against the precision of well-planned tours, drawing from our escapades in the story-rich streets of Rome and the meticulous designs of Scandinavia. As we share these reflections, we invite you to influence our next adventures, promising that even the most unpredictable of travel experiences can lead to memories etched in the stone of time. Tune in, and let's journey together through the architectural wonders that have captured our hearts and fueled our imaginations.Support the showbacktothedrawingboard.ukFollow us on IG: instagram.com/backtothedrawingboardigFollow us on FB: https://www.facebook.com/backtothdrawingboardBuy us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/backtothedrawingboardPrefer it as a Podcast? Look out for us on your favourite platformsPrefer it as a video? https://www.youtube.com/@backtothedrawingboard4115Want to get in touch: [email protected] by friend of the cast: https://on.soundcloud.com/bey4p

Send us Fan MailEver feel like your to-do list is managing you instead of the other way around? Strap in as I, Phil, and my quick-witted intern Theo, embark on a rollicking journey through the time management wilderness, with Zhana, our  live audience to keep things lively. We dissect the Eisenhower Matrix, tackling the quandary of urgency versus importance and why some tasks feel like they're all dressed up with nowhere to go. We'll let you in on our personal battles with the 'busy work' beast and offer a peek behind the curtain at the recording dynamic in our office-turned-studio, where the laughter is as abundant as the time management tips.Imagine your workspace as a sanctuary of productivity — we do, and we're spilling our secrets on how to achieve that Zen. With anecdotes galore, we'll guide you through the minefield of distractions and how a decluttered desk can be your ticket to focus heaven. We're not just talking physical space; your digital realm needs love too, and we've got the hacks to make your computer desktop as pristine as a Marie Kondo-ed sock drawer. From the art of the natural workflow break to transitioning tasks without breaking a sweat, we talk ADHD-friendly approaches and why sometimes the best delegation is to your future self.Closing out with a bang, we share how self-care isn't just bubble baths and yoga mats; it's about carving out time to prioritize your well-being and how it can lead to feats like pulling championship wins (true story, you'll want to hear this one). Weekly planning isn't just for the office — we're dishing out organization tips that span from your bank account to your sandwich prep. And for those who've ever contemplated a checklist tattoo, you're not alone. I reveal my own off-the-wall methods for staying on top of tasks and how an arm can double as a notepad. It's all here, wrapped up in our signature blend of strategy and sass, ready to help you turn your days from chaotic to choreographed.Support the showbacktothedrawingboard.ukFollow us on IG: instagram.com/backtothedrawingboardigFollow us on FB: https://www.facebook.com/backtothdrawingboardBuy us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/backtothedrawingboardPrefer it as a Podcast? Look out for us on your favourite platformsPrefer it as a video? https://www.youtube.com/@backtothedrawingboard4115Want to get in touch: [email protected] by friend of the cast: https://on.soundcloud.com/bey4p

Send us Fan MailImagine the color pink embroiled in a light-hearted dispute, setting the stage for a journey through the emotive world of architecture and love. As Phil Wontner-Smith, with my intern Theo by my side, we meander through stories where passion has left an indelible mark on structures around the globe. Feel the love that crafted the Taj Mahal, a mausoleum that not only celebrates the union between Emperor Shah Jahan and his wife Mumtaz Mahal but has become a symbol of India itself. Explore the delicate balance between cultural narratives and architectural marvels, as we reflect on how the built environment can echo the eternal song of love.The romance doesn't end with ancient wonders; it's alive in the laughter-filled debate over Italy's geographical identity and the musings on Verona's alleged balcony that immortalized Shakespeare's star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet. We weave tales of famed balconies and British Museum escapades, even veering into a galaxy far, far away with a nod to Star Wars politics. Through this tapestry of conversation, we examine how architecture not only captures the heart but also holds a mirror to the cultural zeitgeist of romance that persists through the ages.As the curtains close on this Valentine's Day edition, we cast a spotlight on the communal spirit that art and architecture inspire. Join us in expressing gratitude for the shared passion that fuels our discussions and the laughter that punctuates them. We extend an invitation for further engagement, celebrating the creative journey and the collective experiences that shape our dialogues about art, history, and the human condition—all of which are, at their core, an ode to love.Support the showbacktothedrawingboard.ukFollow us on IG: instagram.com/backtothedrawingboardigFollow us on FB: https://www.facebook.com/backtothdrawingboardBuy us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/backtothedrawingboardPrefer it as a Podcast? Look out for us on your favourite platformsPrefer it as a video? https://www.youtube.com/@backtothedrawingboard4115Want to get in touch: [email protected] by friend of the cast: https://on.soundcloud.com/bey4p

Send us Fan MailSupport the showbacktothedrawingboard.ukFollow us on IG: instagram.com/backtothedrawingboardigFollow us on FB: https://www.facebook.com/backtothdrawingboardBuy us a coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/backtothedrawingboardPrefer it as a Podcast? Look out for us on your favourite platformsPrefer it as a video? https://www.youtube.com/@backtothedrawingboard4115Want to get in touch: [email protected] by friend of the cast: https://on.soundcloud.com/bey4p