Case study
Visit to International Architecture Practice Grimshaw
Where was the visit?
Grimshaw offices in Clerkenwell, London.
Highlights and key benefits for students:
Real-world exposure: Students were able to see what professional architects do on a daily basis, which can help them understand how their studies connect to real-world applications.
Understanding the design process: Observing the stages of design development in an office – from conceptual design to construction documentation – gives students a holistic view of how a project is realised. Students here were able to not only see the finished models of projects they have been learning about, but also speak with architects leading different aspects of the practice. The visit included the following:
- Visit to Model Shop: Explored the facilities and processes with the Model Shop
Directors, gaining insights into advanced model-making techniques, material
selection, and their role in architectural design development. - Lecture by Peter Swallow, Sustainability Lead for Europe on sustainability
initiatives, highlighting cutting-edge approaches to sustainable design and
construction. - Interactive session with Shahrzad Fereidouni, Design Technology Group
Manager, for VR/AR live demonstration showcasing immersive tools for design
visualisation and collaboration. - Lecture by Hesham Shawqy, Computational Design Specialist, on complex
geometries and the integration of digital design techniques and solutions into the
architectural design process.
Inspiration and motivation: Seeing completed projects and the creative environment of a professional space was incredibly motivating for students, giving them something to aim for and aspire to.
Insight into collaboration: Architecture is a collaborative field that involves working with various professionals, including engineers, interior designers, and contractors. The office visit was instrumental in showcasing how these collaborations work in practice.
Exposure to office culture and tools: Students experienced the atmosphere, team dynamics, and software/tools used in professional practice, helping them understand the kind of work environment they might be a part of in the future.
Student perspective
“The educational visit to the Grimshaw architectural firm in London, UK gave students an
Jessica Miramadi, Global Scholar – Architecture
opportunity to witness potential career pathways, allowing for a more secured sense of their
major and passions. Through various interactions with architectural specialists, students were
given hands-on experience that solidified their aspirations even further. This experience was
extremely enlightening for future architects, including myself, and I am so thankful to be
provided with these opportunities.”
“Visiting Grimshaw gave me an invaluable glimpse into the life of working architects. I saw the
Madeline Halabisky, Global Scholar – Architecture
wide range of roles that are played when designing a building and learned about the specialised
skills and offerings that each of these roles involves. Overall, this experience showed me that
the role of an architect is not a limiting one but that there are so many possibilities that stem
from it..”
External partner perspective
“We strongly value hosting students, as it gives us the chance to share Grimshaw’s design
Thorin Costain, Architect, Grimshaw
philosophy and build connections with future architects who may carry forward our
commitment to innovation and sustainable design. By experiencing our approach to design,
modelling, sustainability, computational methods, and VR/AR technology firsthand, students
gain a clear understanding of how these elements come together in real projects.”
Faculty perspective
“Our visit to Grimshaw was an incredibly rewarding experience for our students. They had the
Vasilena Vassilev, Assistant Professor of Architecture, Head of Design and Communication
opportunity to witness the office in action, meet key members of the leadership team behind
their groundbreaking projects, and observe firsthand how the design principles we practise in
our studio connect with the process of developing real-world architecture. The visit provided
valuable insights into the collaborative nature of architectural practice, the innovative use of
technology in design and construction, and the integration of sustainable design solutions in
projects ranging from individual buildings to large-scale master plans.”
Studies
Northeastern University London is a charity
registered with the Charity Commission for
England and Wales (charity number 1189858).
Location
Devon House
58 St Katharine’s Way
London E1W 1LP, UK
+44 20 7637 4550
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