University of Kent, Canterbury, Bachelors, Architecture

The Kent School of Architecture taught us in many ways; we had 6 or 7 modules in each academic year, starting from basic building sketches, structural study reports, historical architecture exams (15–20th century), and working in construction details, environment strategy, and of course the final dissertation. Finally, the most important module for me was Building Design. I developed different tools, from hand-sketching in year 1 to software systems in the two latter years. For me, Rhino is the most familiar tool to explain ideas appropriately, especially when I design curved structures.

Our training has led us to understand the architecture field in a comprehensive way. The most significant and memorable module, apart from design-related modules, for me was 15–20th Century Architecture. I realized the importance of the sequence of modern architecture during these 100 years, from the significant metal frame structure of Crystal Palace to the Chicago skyscraper boomed in the late 19th century. Furthermore, after studying the greatest 20th century architects – Frank Lloyd Wright, Walter Gropius, Miss Ven der Rohe, Le Corbusier, and Lois Kahn, etc. – I can use difference perspective to understand a building, such as the domino system designed by Corbusier and the five points, or the famous Beton-Brut concrete approach. Minimalism by Mies, Barcelona Pavilion reflects his famous quote, ‘Less is More’. The pioneer architect Frank Lloyd Wright, who was inspired by Japanese architect, then gave birth to a new paradigm of architecture of using big horizontal and vertical skeletons. These magnificent architects had a huge impact on the world, and each has deepened my appreciation of architecture.