Q&A with Tom Washington, Architectural Assistant at Nick Leith-Smith Architecture + Design

In this month’s Nick Leith-Smith Architecture + Design Journal, we chat with Architectural Assistant, Tom Washington, who shares his experience on the apprenticeship programme at NLSA.

1. Please explain the apprenticeship programme and what the benefits are?

The apprenticeship has allowed me to gain “real world” experience in the industry of architecture whilst I pursue my Part 2 and Part 3 architectural qualifications. The main advantage is gaining far more workplace experience ahead of their Part 3 qualification, apart from the financial advantage, it makes the student more employable.

2. Has working had an impact on how you approach your academic work?

Working in practice has taught me to take a professional and more organised approach to my university work. Applying skills and insight gained in the workplace as well as having the mentorship of colleagues.

3. What made you interested in applying to the position at NLSA?

What stood out to me when applying to NLSA was their bespoke approach to each design. The practice didn’t seem to have a ‘style’, but every project was specific and unique to its location and client demands. This attracted me as this approach is indicative of a thoughtful design process, where each concept is original. The diversity and number of projects would enable me to get real project experience across multiple sectors. Finally, NLSA’s architecture has a real quality of finish and strong aesthetic. This is largely due to the brand’s commercial awareness and the way they build strong relationships with clients.

4. How has your experience been so far and what have been your highlights, etc.

In the short time I have been working at NLSA I have been exposed to many different projects. It has been interesting to see how the details and buildability of a project is considered at an early stage at NLSA, intern early consideration of details, creating clarity and efficiency. The main projects I have been assigned to is the Manolo Blahnik Abu Dhabi store relocation. I am excited to see this realised in the coming months.

5. Can you explain your approach to sustainable design and its importance in your work

The most sustainable building is the one you don’t knock down or lasts the longest. This means that a project needs to be socially sustainable as well as environmentally. This could be attained by making sure that the function of the building benefits the community, or simply just ensuring that high quality buildings are produced, paying particular attention to materiality, quality of finish and detailing. As architects, we need to make sure that if we do build something new, time, effort and investment are applied to make sure it lasts. Of course they must inspire at the same time!

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