Since I got my first Lego set at the age of three, I’ve always believed that the work created by architects made a real difference in people’s lives.
After National Service, I proceeded to enrol at the Architectural Association in London and was incredibly excited to be surrounded by what I perceived as some of the brightest minds from all around the world. Many architects spend their careers watching other professionals with comparable education soar to financial heights, while architecture salaries are barely enough to cover living expenses.
Having been fortunate to have lived on multiple continents and been exposed to different cultures and perspectives, while still being in the profession, this is what I’ve learned will create a workplace environment that allows architects and designers to thrive.In 2016, I joined global architecture firm HKS and was based in their Singapore office.
These factors clearly dictate why the industrial brain drain is so severe — few see any light at the end of the tunnel. The traditional hierarchical approach oft leads to younger graduates being left endless tasks at the close of business, all to be completed within the same day. On the other hand, those with experience possess knowledge and technical expertise. Yet, the knowledge transfer within offices has traditionally been a one-way street.