The latest instalment of the Minerva Lecture Series offered our students a fascinating window into the world of architecture, led by two distinguished industry experts: Irene Yeung, Associate, Potter Church & Holmes, and Riddhi Parakh, Project Lead Architect.

It was an eye opening session that bridged the gap between classroom creativity and the complex reality of professional design.

From Skyscrapers to Handrails: The Architect’s Craft

The girls were captivated by the sheer scale and variety of projects Irene and Riddhi have spearheaded. The presentation showcased a portfolio spanning the globe from the Burj Alshaya Four Seasons in Kuwait to Churches and Homes in the UK to the Microsoft flagship store in Oxford Circus, and even the HMRC Regional Headquarters in Cardiff.

One of the most surprising takeaways was the meticulous level of detail required in the profession. The students learned that even “simple” elements, like a handrail or a staircase, can take a three-person team months of rigorous design work to perfect.

The Path to Qualification

Irene and Riddhi were candid about the dedication required to succeed, outlining the seven-year journey to becoming a fully qualified architect. Their practical advice for our aspiring designers was clear:

Start Early: Build your portfolio now.

Be Hands on: Don’t just rely on screens, sketch, photograph, and build physical models.

Balance Art & Business: Architecture isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about communication, meeting a client’s specific needs, and working within a budget.

The Digital Evolution

Riddhi provided a compelling look at how the industry has shifted, demonstrating how she utilises AI to design spaces today. Comparing this to the workflows of 15 years ago, she highlighted how technology has accelerated the design process while opening up new creative possibilities.

High Praise for Bromley High School Pupils

Following the lecture, Mrs. Bence (Head of DT) led a tour of our Design & Technology displays. Both guests were genuinely impressed by the calibre of work produced by our students. Riddhi commented:

“The girls at Bromley High School are truly talented designers. They are ready for work, I would hire them today!”Riddhi Parakh