Student's architectural design wins top award

Seeing off tough competition from across the UK and Europe, recent Solent University, Southampton graduate, Ian Westhead, has been awarded the Student Award for Excellence in Architectural Technology Project at this year’s Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT) annual AT Awards.

Presented by the President, Kevin Crawford PCIAT, the Awards celebrate outstanding achievements in Architectural Technology for both students and practitioners.

The BA (Hons) Architectural Design and Technology graduate won the category that recognises outstanding design achievement in Architectural Technology based upon a university/college assignment, for his Between the Bridges Regeneration project, which also helped him achieve a First Class degree this summer.

Commenting on his design the judges said, “This is a well resolved technical design solution with developed annotation and a fine level of attention to fire and sustainability. A lot of the features are thought through considerably and add to the overall nature of the proposal. With all this combined, this project is a standout as a Winner for the Student Award for Excellence in Architectural Technology Project.”

During his degree, Ian (23) from Bournemouth, worked at an architecture practice in Poole. For his Final Major Project at University, he wanted to choose a live project that was part of the local council's vision for the town - to understand the details of the major development sites and the personnel behind them.

“This site seemed to offer the most interesting context as it was in between an area of future development phases and the historic old town of Poole, as well being on the waterfront,” says Ian.

“It was a chance to design some interesting landmark buildings and create connections to the wider town centre, opening up more of the waters’ edge for homes, businesses and the public,” he continues.

Ian’s architectural design picked up on the local theme of maritime industry, but with a modern interpretation. While the architecture blends with the existing town, it also introduces modern landmarks that are exciting and experimental.

Dr Monkiz Khasreen, Ian’s project supervisor and Course Leader at University, says, “Ian has produced a complete project that showcases excellence in Architectural Design and Technology. His active listening skills enabled him to maximise the benefits from supervision sessions and utilise feedback effectively. Ian produced a project that exceeds expectations in all aspects.”

Sarah Radif, Associate Professor, Head of Architecture, Design and Built Environment at Solent University says, “We are delighted that one of Solent Architectural Design and Technology students has brought home this prestigious award after beating tough competition from universities across the UK and Europe. This is a testament to the hard work of students and commitment of staff to deliver excellent, industry focussed curriculum. Congratulation to Ian Westhead, described by judges as the ‘standout winner’, on this outstanding achievement.”

Ian graduated this summer with a First Class degree. What he loved about this time at Solent was the connections to professionals working in the industry through various guest lectures, and the vocational focus.

Looking to the future Ian wants to keep an open mind, build good relationships and follow opportunities wherever they may lead.

The AT Award ceremony, hosted by Matt Allwright, was attended by a cross section from the built environment sector and showcased Architectural Technology, both in practise and as a key academic discipline, demonstrating the growth and impact within the UK and internationally. The event can be viewed here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9wYIdKpJna8