Meet David
Architecture and Urban Planning BA (Hons)
The intersection of people, place and climate
My name's David, and I'm studying BA Architecture and Urban Planning. For me, having the opportunity to tailor my degree during the course of my studies was definitely an incentive for choosing the course. It is an incredibly creative, yet practical degree programme sitting at the intersection of people, place and climate. From the perspective of working within the built environment, I have been able to develop my problem-solving, critical thinking, communication and proficiency in various design software.
Architecture and Urban Planning at Newcastle University strikes a careful balance between theory and practice. From Stage 1, I have not only been taught about the history, theory and broader contexts of our cities, but I have also been able to apply these principles to a series of urban design and architecture projects. The course allows me to understand the built environment from a variety of perspectives. Through my degree, I have been able to explore West African vernacular architecture, modern urban planning schemes and Middle Eastern city infrastructure.
The North East as a case study
As a campus university located right next to the city centre, being able to source materials both on and off-campus is especially useful for model-making during first year.
The North East is home to many of the case studies that we explore as Architecture and Urban Planning students. Through field trips, lectures, and conversations with local residents, I have had the opportunity to learn more about Hadrian's Wall, Byker Estate, and the remnants of T. Dan Smith's 'Brasilia of the North' just outside of campus, to name a few.
Extracurricular skills
Joining the Newcastle University Debating Society has allowed me to hone my public speaking and teamwork skills at university. Being able to articulate myself, make a strong argument and work well in a team are skills needed during my course, such as during a review when presenting and defending a final design.
Serving as Editor-in-Chief for the Newcastle University Architecture Society’s student magazine, ‘Fold’, has allowed me to explore my interests in architectural criticism, commentary and journalism. As a contributing writer for Rethinking the Future and Sonder Magazine, in addition to ‘Fold’, engaging with architecture as an art, profession and field of study will support me on my journey to becoming more than just a fully qualified architect.
Hearing from high-profile practitioners
Engaging with the Farrell Centre, the Newcastle University School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape's museum for the built environment, has allowed me to hear from a number of high-profile practitioners within the built environment. This has demonstrated to me the different ways to practice architecture and express its thinking; through film, sculpture and community projects.
Through the Farrell Centre, I have attended a guest lecture by 2025 Pritzker Architecture Prize Winner Liu Jiakun, and seen an exclusive screening of 'The Art of Architecture' by Eric Parry Architects and multi-academy-award-winning director Jon Blair CBE.
Finding a specialism for you
Architecture and Urban Planning is perfect for students who are interested in either design or the built environment but don't know where to start. By exploring architecture, urban design, urban planning and landscape - as well as the theory behind it all - through this incredibly interdisciplinary programme, you're bound to find a specialism for you, sitting either within or beyond the built and natural environment.
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