Drawing the Line

Drawing the Line
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Drawing the Line is a raw, honest, and authentic podcast about the realities of working in architecture. Hosted by a qualified architect and an architectural apprentice based in Birmingham, we dive into everything from life after qualification to the financial side of the industry, design challenges, and career opportunities. Whether you're a student, a young professional, or a seasoned architect, expect candid conversations. Join us as we draw the line between expectation and reality in architecture! @drawingthelinepod

Episodes

  1. FEB 10

    Conservation in Practice: Retrofit, Policy and the Realities of Heritage Architecture

    In this episode of Drawing the Line, we speak with Matthew Vaughan, Practice Director at Donald Insall Associates, about the role of adaptive reuse and conservation in contemporary architecture. We unpack what a “retrofit first” approach looks like in practice, the challenges of working with listed buildings, and how heritage projects balance preservation, sustainability, accessibility, and modern use. Matthew also discusses fees, risk, and the realities of long, complex conservation projects. The conversation explores policy and institutional funding and why reuse is increasingly important in addressing embodied carbon. For students and early-career architects, we cover routes into conservation practice, key skills, and the future of heritage-led architecture. Thank you to EH Smith for hosting us at their new Design Centre in Digbeth, Birmingham.

    1h 7m

  2. JAN 29

    Next Chapter, New Challenges, or Midlife Crisis?

    Is it a leap forward or a necessary reset? In this episode, we sit down with Daz, a senior architect who made the decision to leave a settled career in Birmingham and move to London to join one of the world’s most recognisable 'Starchitect' practices. This wasn’t just a change of location. It meant stepping away from seniority, adjusting to the scale and pace of a global studio, and starting again in a city that’s as demanding as it is full of opportunity. We talk honestly about what that move really involved: The shift from regional practice to a large international office Letting go of status and navigating an ego reset mid-career The personal and professional pressures of relocating to London What opportunity actually looks like in architecture beyond your twenties Daz reflects on what prompted the move, how it’s felt to reset later in life, and what he hopes this chapter sets up over the next few years. If you’ve ever questioned your direction, felt stuck, or wondered how long an architectural career really lasts, this conversation will resonate.

    46 min

  3. 12/29/2025

    Looking Back, Looking Forward: Architecture, RIBA, and ARB

    In our final episode of 2025, we take a step back to reflect on the year, the conversations we’ve had, and how Drawing the Line has grown. We revisit key moments from past episodes, what we’ve learned along the way, and how the podcast has shaped our thinking about architectural education and practice. We also look ahead to 2026, sharing our ambitions for the podcast and why creating honest, accessible conversations within the profession feels increasingly important. Alongside this, we unpack the ongoing RIBA vs ARB debate, breaking down who does what, what each organisation offers, and the real costs of registration and membership. We explore why the system feels confusing for many students and early-career architects, and how understanding the difference between regulation and professional support can help you make more informed choices. Whether you’re studying, working in practice, or recently qualified, this episode is about reflection, clarity, and looking forward. Let us know your thoughts in the comments or on our social channels.

    48 min

  4. 11/12/2025

    Beyond Design: Chris Williamson on Lifelong Learning, Fair Pay, and the Next Generation of Architects

    In this episode, we’re joined by Chris Williamson, RIBA President and co-founder of Weston Williamson + Partners. We talk about everything from the future of lifelong learning to fair pay, design competitions, and how architects can build more meaningful careers. Chris reflects on his four decades in practice, the mentors who shaped him, and his hopes for a more equitable, connected, and confident profession. Connect with us via Instagram & LinkedIn, we'd love to know your thoughts on opinions on the topics discussed: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drawingthelinepod/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/drawingtheline-podcast/

    1h 9m

  5. 08/22/2025

    Drawing Together: A Dialogue Between Tutor and Student

    In this episode of Drawing the Line, we bring together a university tutor and a student for an honest conversation about life in architectural education. We explore what tutors are really looking for in their students, how to navigate the challenges of undergraduate study, and why balancing digital skills with hand drawing and design thinking is so important. We also look ahead to the upcoming changes in the architecture curriculum, discussing how these shifts could shape the experiences of current students and the opportunities for future graduates entering practice. BCU Architecture: https://www.instagram.com/bcu_architecture Studio Zine Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studio.zine Drawing the Line: https://www.instagram.com/drawingthelinepod/

    1h 30m

  6. 07/30/2025

    Size Matters: Inside Small, Medium & Large Architecture Firms (2/2)

    Daz and aB continue their reflections on their journeys through architecture practices of all sizes. From a tight-knit 5-person studio to a 300-strong national firm. They dive into the realities of freelancing, part-time, and full-time work at different scales, unpacking how culture, responsibility, and opportunities shift with size. Whether you're job-hunting or just curious about how practice structure shapes day-to-day life, this honest conversation lays out the pros and cons with honesty and insight from lived experiences. ⁠IG: Drawing the Line⁠ ⁠AJ100 Index⁠ ⁠RIBA Salary Guide

    1h 2m

  7. 06/22/2025

    Size Matters: Inside Small, Medium & Large Architecture Firms (1/2)

    In this episode, Daz and aB reflect on their journeys through architecture practices of all sizes. From a tight-knit 5-person studio to a 300-strong national firm. They unpack what it’s really like to work at different scales, sharing the benefits, challenges, and subtle shifts in culture and responsibility that come with each. Whether you're deciding where to apply or just curious about how practice size shapes experience, this conversation breaks down the pros and cons with honesty and insight. IG: Drawing the Line AJ100 Index RIBA Salary Guide

    1h 1m

  8. 05/13/2025

    More Than Marks: Surviving and Navigating Architecture School Pt 02

    In this episode, the focus turns to the structure of the University of Cambridge Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship. The conversation explores how the course compares to the traditional masters route, while offering a breakdown of each module and its practical purpose. The discussion highlights how the programme blends academic study with real-world experience, using industry-aligned modules to upskill students while they work in practice. For anyone curious about the apprenticeship path or how it prepares students for the profession, this episode provides clear and honest insight. Some of the sustainable design resources discussed in this episode: The Construction Material Pyramid FCBS Carbon Embodied Carbon ICE Database Edward de Bono - Six Thinking Hats

    1h 17m

  9. 04/14/2025

    More Than Marks: Surviving and Navigating Architecture School Pt 01

    This episode dives into a personal journey into architecture school. The conversation covers the realities behind academic results, personal challenges, and the hurdles faced along the way. It is an honest look at the highs and lows of the process, from early doubts to developing confidence and building meaningful connections. There is reflection on the importance of resilience, learning to navigate setbacks and the role that confidence and networking play in both academic and professional growth. For anyone considering architecture or currently on the journey, this episode offers relatable insight and genuine encouragement.

    1h 14m

  10. 03/21/2025

    Is Architecture Worth It?

    Daz & aB sit down for a conversation about the realities of becoming an architect. From the long road to qualification to the challenges of breaking into the industry. In this first episode, Is Architecture Worth It?, we explore the financial and personal sacrifices, early career salary expectations, and whether the risk vs. reward truly adds up in 2025. We break down the time and commitment required to qualify, comparing the traditional university path with the apprenticeship route, and weigh the pros and cons of choosing architecture as a profession. With Daz bringing over a decade of experience in the industry and aB navigating his Part 2 through an apprenticeship, we offer honest insights from both sides of the journey. Got thoughts or questions? Drop us a message on Instagram, we’d love to hear from you! @drawingthelinepod

    48 min
  • 10 Episodes

About

Drawing the Line is a raw, honest, and authentic podcast about the realities of working in architecture. Hosted by a qualified architect and an architectural apprentice based in Birmingham, we dive into everything from life after qualification to the financial side of the industry, design challenges, and career opportunities. Whether you're a student, a young professional, or a seasoned architect, expect candid conversations. Join us as we draw the line between expectation and reality in architecture! @drawingthelinepod

Information

  • Creator
    Drawing the Line
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    10
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Drawing the Line
  • Show Website
    Drawing the Line