Yesterday was my first day on placement at SK Architects, and what a day it turned out to be. I arrived at 10 a.m., feeling a mixture of excitement and nerves, not quite knowing what to expect. I dressed smart casual as advised and was warmly welcomed at the door by Donna, the office manager, whose openness immediately set a positive tone.

Within minutes, I was introduced to the team of architects and to Steve, the director. Rather than easing me in with a small task, they surprised me with something much more substantial. They explained that, because of my background and experience, they’d like me to take on the redesign of their entire new studio space. They’ve only recently moved into a listed building, and planning permission has already been granted for adaptations—so I was handed the opportunity to start modelling the space in SketchUp.

With only loose instructions and a huge amount of trust and encouragement, I made my way downstairs to begin taking measurements of the main studio area. I felt genuinely grateful in that moment—for the chance, for their belief in me, and for the fact that I had the SketchUp skills from university to begin working confidently and independently.

Just after 1 p.m., I was invited to join a site visit to a new project they’re developing for HARP, a local charity. They’ve acquired a building on the High Street with plans to turn it into a restaurant-bar-style community hub, with medical services, dental care, and spaces for encouragement, support, and activity. Walking through the building, I was asked to assess which works had been completed and what phases were still to come. I also took measurements for a proposed reception desk—another live project I was given to model.

The pace was full-on, but I loved every moment. I said “yes” to everything because I want to make the most of this opportunity. I ended up working on the designs at home into the evening—well past 10:30 p.m.—because I wanted to make sure everything was just right. I’ve included some photos of what I’ve done so far, and while it’s still early days, I’m really proud of how the first designs are shaping up.

As I write this, it’s just before 8 a.m. and I’m about to head off for day two. I’m genuinely excited to be working in an architect’s studio, surrounded by creative professionals and real-world projects that make a difference. It feels like a significant step in my journey—both in design and in myself. More to come.