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Simon James

Simon James

London, GB

 
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About 

I spent the year following my RIBA Part I degree working in Zurich for SAM Architekten und Partner on a diverse range of projects, where I became an esteemed member of a successful design team and gained valuable experience in professional practice. I was able to considerably develop my skills and flexibility within professional practice through a high level of responsibility over different SIA (Swiss RIBA equivalent) work stages in numerous projects of varying scale and function.

Having established versatile and interdisciplinary working methodologies, both as an individual at the WSA and as part of a team at SAM Architekten, I strive to respond meticulously to the specificity and particularities of any brief through tailoring my skills. I have extensive experience in both physical craft and advanced digital modelling. From concept to visualisation, I respect a balance between both in architectural design. My architectural interest and projects thrive on pushing theoretical and technological boundaries whilst remaining overtly true to fundamental phenomenological experiences. My research interests focus on the intersection between digital and physical realms in the design, construction and perception of architecture.

Elsewhere:

Employment 

Patalab, London, Associate Architect

Jan 2013 - current
 

Soppelsa Architekten, Zürich, CH, Freelance Visualiser

Freelance visualiser for Soppelsa Architekten competition entry

Jul 2011 - Jul 2011
 

SAM Architekten und Partner, Zürich, CH, Part I Architectural Assistant

Personally invited by Sacha Menz to join SAM Architekten und Partner AG (founded by Dolf Schnebli in 1958) as a Part I Architectural Assistant following my BSc achievements at the WSA.

Primary roles:

QUARTIER RICHTI, WALLISELLEN
[New Build | 28,000m² | A-H]
- detail and conceptual design of entrances and restaurant
- physical / virtual modelling and visualisation

HOTEL VORDERER STERNEN, ZÜRICH
[New Build | 1,600m² | A-E]
- physical / virtual modelling
- development of facade design with visualisation

HFGS, AARAU
[Competition | 8,000m² | B-E]
- competition visualisation
- development of facade design

WEINWELT, WILCHINGEN
[1st Prize Competition | 380m² | B-E]
- development of final design
- virtual modelling
- competition visualisation

WOHNÜBERBAUUNG, DÜBENDORF
[Competition | 5,400m² | A-F]
- lead designer and developer of competition
- physical / virtual modelling
- execution of final drawings and competition visualisation

Aug 2010 - May 2011
 

SAWSA, Cardiff, GB, Propaganda - Graphic Designer

Design & maintenance of Student Association of Welsh School of Architecture website. Poster, membership cards, information packs and clothing design. Enhancing team work & organisation skills both with SAWSA committee and school graphic designer.

Sep 2008 - Jun 2009
 

GVI: Global Vision International, Tortuguero, CR, Costa Rica Wildlife Expedition Volunteer

Volunteer work towards development and management of the long-term wildlife conservation in remote part of Costa Rica. Working with and teaching local community. Developing interpersonal, time management, scientific / analytical technique and teamwork skills.

May 2007 - Jun 2007
 

Blah d Blah Graphic Design, Conwy, GB, Graphic Design Intern

Website and graphic design development. Light administrative work.

Jun 2005 - Jun 2005
 

Conwy County Borough Council, Llandudno, GB, Architectural Intern

General introduction to architectural practice, shadowing several architects on local project level as well as site visits. Introduction to AutoCAD in addition to developing drafting skills.

Jun 2004 - Jun 2004
 

Education 

Cardiff University, Cardiff, GB, MArch, Architecture

Commendation

Sep 2010 - Jun 2012
 

Cardiff University, Cardiff, GB, Bachelors, Architectural Studies

1:1 First Class Honours

Sep 2007 - Jun 2010
 

Ysgol Y Creuddyn, Llandudno, GB, High School, A-Level

A – Art
A – Design & Technology
A – Music
B – Physics

Sep 2004 - Jul 2006
 

Awards 

T Alwyn Lloyd Travelling Scholarship, Scholarship

Awarded to the 4 highest achieving students of the BSc in Architectural Studies.

2010
 

RIBA President's Medals Student Awards, Nomination

Nominated by the Welsh School of Architecture to represent the school in the prestigious international RIBA President's Medals Student Awards

2010
 
2007
 

National Design & Technology Awards, Nomination

2005
 

Areas of Specialization 

Skills