Graduates 2023: Olivia Gillam, Architecture BA(Hons)

With a great sense of studio culture, the tutors offer unconditional support tailored to each student.

Please tell us a bit about your work and your influences 

I’d say that my work has a strong emphasis on story telling in a playful and compassionate manner. Creating thoughtful and considerate designs through working closely with the community or tackling current socio-political issues is something that I’ve gravitated towards throughout my projects. For example, I most recently designed a Temporary Accommodation Village above Brighton Stations railway tracks. Inspired by Seneca Village and Moria Refugee Camp, residents can build ‘parasites’ onto their homes through a self-build culture, adding personalisation and a sense of belonging, regardless of how long they might be living there- making the temporary feel permanent.  

How have you found your course and time at Brighton? 

I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time studying Architecture at Brighton University. With a great sense of studio culture, the tutors offer unconditional support tailored to each student. We are all very close-knit and it’s just a lovely environment to be a part of. I feel a lot more confident the other side of university, ready to start my Architectural career.  

How did you choose your course – why did you choose to study Architecture? 

I started my A-Levels where I was studying English Literature, Biology and Psychology. After feeling so uninspired by the lack of creativity in the courses that I’d chosen, I dropped out and began my Architectural studies at Chichester College where I did a L3 Diploma in Architecture and Interior Design. I feel as though this course set me up well for university and consolidated my desire to (one day) become a fully-qualified Architect. 

What are your plans after graduation? 

After graduation, I intend on completing my year out in practice before the long road ahead to becoming fully qualified. I may go on a holiday or two before though! 

Published by

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *