In an architect’s mind

By - , Build 168

Architecture student Georgia Peacocke, part of the award-winning team on the Archengbuild Challenge, tells Build what drew her to architecture and what success in the Challenge means.

Q. What made you study architecture?

When I was younger, I would grab a sketchbook and walk down the road just to draw the house façades along the street. I love the idea of conceptually visualising something and the prospect of being able to see it come to life. I want to be an architect because of the endless opportunities to enhance the environment while making inspired spaces for people along the way.

Q. Whose work particularly excites you, either here or overseas, and are there any architectural styles you are particularly drawn to?

This answer would change every week for me. After working on my thesis this year and looking at craft and detail within timber construction, I am really drawn to the Swedish log construction or Strickbau – meaning knitted construction. Examples of this can be seen by Peter Zumthor, in Leis, where he has created holiday homes out of timber logs in which the detail is really quite beautiful. I am also inspired by New Zealand architects, and having the opportunity to work with award winning firm Edwards White Architects has given me inspiration in refined timber residential architecture.

I grew up in a beautiful Georgian style home and also have a soft spot for traditional architecture that’s classical and won’t date.

Q. What issues face those embarking on architecture today that differ from those of previous generations?

I think the housing crisis along with the growing population is something that we, as architects moving into the real world of practice, will have to face.

Previous generations may have had the luxury of space and larger-scaled houses, but this is not necessarily practical any more. We will have to be astute and clever in thinking about scale, cost, future proofing, eco-friendly and efficiency moving forward.

Q. BIM is said to be changing architecture. How do you feel about this and other technologies such as VR in architecture?

I’m all for it. I am a lover of working collaboratively in a team, and BIM is the perfect way to be doing this. VR, however, is way out of my jurisdiction. I do not know enough to comment, but I think once it’s developed further, it will really benefit that client-architect relationship by involving them more with the whole process to develop that collaboration from the get go.

Q. Tell me about the ArchEngBuild award and your role in it. What does the win mean to you?

ArchEngBuild was an intensive 3-day competition where a team of three students – one each from architecture, engineering and construction – worked together on a brief.

From my perspective as the architect, the prerequisite was to come up with a medium-density housing complex that was multi-generational, adaptable and affordable. Working with my engineer, we conceived a modular design that had an exposed load-bearing skeleton frame consisting of timber glulam elements. Our intention was to create a natural set framework that would allow free layout of modular dwellings within and also give a flexible building structure that could accommodate changing needs.

To be awarded the win, along with the bonus of the monetary prize, was a huge boost in the middle of completing my master’s project. It has given me motivation to complete my studies and eagerness looking forward. The prospect of getting out into the real world is motivating, and I am excited for any opportunity to begin collaborating with engineers, quantity surveyors, building constructors and so many more in order to see my designs come to life.

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