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Andrew Arkell

Andrew Arkell

Chicago, IL, US

 

About 

I am a 2012 graduate of the Fay Jones School of Architecture at the University of Arkansas, where I received my Bachelor of Architecture. As a proponent for the craft of hand drawing and its contribution to the design process, I focused my senior thesis, “Drawing as Architecture”, to emphasize architectural making through drawing. At the conclusion of my research, I not only developed a greater appreciation for the craft of hand drawing and its importance in the creation of architecture, but also recognized that craft is an essential element in architectural development.

Immediately following graduation I worked for the design-build firm 3GD inc., located in Northwest Arkansas, and furthered my knowledge of the architectural process, this time through building. There, I gained an understanding and familiarity with the material craft that exists within the more tangible world of architecture and building construction. A year and a half of swinging a hammer taught me that there is a difference between drawing a straight line and building one, and that while learning how to draw might make you a better designer, learning how to build will make you a better architect. My time on site is invaluable and I believe it has made me capable to tackle design decisions in an office setting.

My employment with Arkansas artist George Dombek, beginning in the Fall of 2013, has afforded me a greater appreciation for the arts while giving me an alternate perspective on architecture through the drawing of barns.

I currently work for Tom Bassett-Dilley Architect. While expanding my knowledge of building science and passive house design, I participate in all phases of architectural design and I am currently pursuing licensure within the state of Illinois.

Please feel free to visit my online portfolio at <http://ajarkell.viewbook.com>.

Employment 

Tom Bassett-Dilley Architects Ltd., Chicago, IL, US, Intern Architect

Jun 2015 - current
 

Vinci Hamp Architects, Chicago, IL, US, Technical Assistant

Mar 2015 - Jun 2015
 

George Dombek Studio, Fayetteville, AR, US, Studio Assistant + Production Manager

Assist in the production of watercolor paintings (10” x 10” up to 60” x 60”)
Engage in the tailoring of a project to a specific client through commissions
Develop spatial organization for painting exhibitions
Negotiate sales with clients and install work in residences

Sep 2013 - Mar 2015
 

3GD inc., Fayetteville, AR, US, Architectural Intern + Design-Build Member

Framed and constructed the Beaver Lake Residence with build-team members
Gained insight into how a drawn line becomes a building
Experienced in solving structural and detail problems on site
Familiarized with scheduling during construction administration phase

Jun 2012 - Nov 2013
 

University of Arkansas Fay Jones School of Architecture, Fayetteville, AR, US, Research Assistant

Assisted Dr. Korydon Smith in editing his book, "Introducing Architectural Theory"

Aug 2010 - May 2012
 

Education 

University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, US, BArch, Architecture

Aug 2007 - May 2012
 

Awards 

Herbert K. Fowler Medal, 1st Place

Demonstration of outstanding hand drawing skills

2012
 

HBG International Design Competition Award Winner, 1st Place

Mexico Urban Studio Project

2010
 

Areas of Specialization 

Skills