Kafui Akpo Young, from Hillhead Secondary School. Photo: © Barham Glen Architects
Earlier this year Barham Glen Architects were pleased to offer Kafui Akpo Young, from Hillhead Secondary School, a week’s work placement. Kafui, 15, was just completing his fourth year at school. In his week with us we hoped to give him a flavour of the various tasks involved in the day to day running of an architectural practice; the design process, CAD, site visits, working with other members of the design teams on projects etc…
This was his response to his experience working with us:
Why did you choose this placement?
Kafui:
Like a a lot of people my age, I’m not entirely sure what I want to do after I leave school but this placement gave me the opportunity to see how a private business operates, to learn about a profession and to meet some interesting people.
Kafui and Paul having a look at some project drawings. Photo: © Barham Glen Architects.
What was the highlight of your week on placement?
Kafui:
I attended a meeting at West Whitlawburn Energy Centre site with Paul, where discussions were taking place between the various members of the design team. The project was a boiler house designed to provide sustainable heating for local residents in West Whitlawburn. An issue had arisen about access for lorries delivering fuel to the boiler. I had no idea how complicated these issues are and how many people need to be involved to find a solution. It was a great exercise in problem solving.
What did you learn about architecture during you placement at Barham Glen Architects?
Kafui:
It’s not all about drawing fancy buildings. There is a lot of hard work that goes on in the background. Having to work along with planners and contactors to promote sustainable, green design. It was a real eye opener.
I learnt that a huge amount of effort is needed to run your own business. I would finish my placement at around 4 pm but Paul would often be in the office till 9 or 10 at night responding to emails and completing drawings.
I had not realised how much time and effort was required to complete a project.
Thanks so much for giving me such a good opportunity!
Kafui on site with Paul Barham, Director at Barham Glen Architects. Photo: © Barham Glen Architects
