CV
Summary
I am a designer with a broad experience in the fields of architecture and web development. Whether with buildings or websites, I believe design should be quiet, intuitive and age with dignity. My approach to clients has been to equip them with the confidence and tools to simplify their lives.
Employment
Jul 2007 to present | Freelance
3D Visualisations - Using 3D modelling and sophisticated rendering software, including Sketchup, Blender, Artlantis Studio and Piranesi, I have composed scores of illustrations, mainly for a+j burridge architects. Notable projects include Scottish Housing Expo, Sheffield Parkway Footbridge, Nordhavnen Masterplan, River Douglas Footbridge. The same skills were used to aid Reiko Kaneko, a ceramics designer, in designing ceramic vessels on the computer, prior to the expensive prototyping process.
Architectural Projects - For domestic clients, I have assisted in small planning and building warrant applications. Also designed and helped to build a modest, timber garage extension.
Architectural IT consultancy - Mainly for sole practitioner architects, have offered practical advice on architectural IT. I gave a presentation on emerging working practices for small architectural practices to ECAN (Edinburgh Chartered Architects Network).
Web Design - Largely for design professionals, I have created various websites. Some were static, and others allow the user to create content (CMS). Have also worked on 3 online shops.
Music - Part hobby, part professional interest, I have been producing and playing indie music since 2002. As an experienced recording engineer, I produced in excess of 100 songs for small bands. Notable projects include Burrows (Essay Like Nephew), Church EP (Columbus and Crusoe), Demo EP (Me & The Neck), and playing at the BBC Introducing Stage, Glastonbury 2009.
April to December 2006 | Architectural Assistant - a+j burridge architects
Working for a small practice, undertook the whole range of tasks expected of an architectural practice, including drafting tender and planning drawings, building warrant applications, researching, and 3D modelling. The projects included competitions, residential new-build and extensions, and and office fit-outs. Outside the standard architectural skills, was called on to update and improve the practice's website and advise on hardware and software improvements for the office.
To this day, I maintain a working relationship with the practice on a freelance basis.
Skills
Outside the standard architectural skills, my IT skills are self-taught. Learn new software quickly.
Architectural/Graphics IT - Software: Vectorworks, Sketchup, Blender, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Artlantis Studio, Piranesi (Limited experience with ArchiCAD, AutoCAD, Maya).
Web Development - Languages: XHTML, CSS, PHP, Javascript, JQuery, MySQL, Smarty. Software: Dreamweaver, MAMP, Cyber Duck, Prestashop, Drupal, Ubercart
Music - Instruments (in order of proficiency): Guitar, Bass Guitar, Keyboards, Melodica, Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute. Software: Logic Studio, Ableton Live
Education
2003 to 2007 | MA [Hons] Architectural Design (RIBA Part I), University of Edinburgh
With a focus on design, the course also included technology, architectural history and social anthropology. The design course encouraged the use of the workshop to create physical models, and familiarise budding architects with the act of building. For the final year project, a detailed masterplan was produced with close attention on environmental concepts and obligations in design.
1998 to 2003 | Oundle School
Voluntary Activities
2009 to present | Great Missenden Parish, Village Design Statement Group
As a resident of Great Missenden, I offered my expertise as a designer and became secretary to the Village Design Statement Group. The aim of the group was to produce a Village Design Statement as a community, which would help future building designers to understand the historical, cultural, built and natural context of the village.
2008 to present | Consensus Website - debating and decision making platform
Feeling that public participation in policy making was inefficient, expensive, opaque and divisive, I decided to start making a website which would correct these ills. As the programming of such a site proved to be complicated, the project undertaken in my free time has been slow to progress. The ultimate aim is to produce a community-based website, where organised voices help to shape policy, through open debate and deliberation.
2002 to 2008 | Mencap Holidays
Charity work, helping to run an annual week long holiday for 40 children with special needs. As part of a team of 70 volunteers, I made sure that the children are kept safe and have the most enjoyable week of their year. It is demanding and highly rewarding work.