MEET THE TEAM: ISSY METCALFE-SMITH
In the next of our regular ‘Meet the Team’ series, we talk to Architectural Assistant Issy Metcalfe-Smith.
What got you into architecture originally?
My interest in architecture was sparked when I was 10 years old. My parents bought a barn in West Sussex and spent two years converting it into our family home. I was lucky enough at such a young age to be able to experience the process from concept design to completion and I just thought how amazing the architectural process was.
Describe your role at Lees Associates
I recently joined the practice as a Part 2 Architectural Assistant, having recently graduated with an MArch. Although it is early days, I have been made to feel really welcome and have already been involved in several very interesting high-end projects. My role is to assist where I can in understanding and interpreting the client brief, design, drawing and planning of projects with the team.
Where do your particular passions, skills and interests lie?
In my studies I have specialised in heritage and conservation work and I would like to build on these with more practical project experience. I love utilising the narrative of places and spaces to re-imagine and re-purpose them for contemporary needs.
What do you enjoy about what you do?
I love working with people, in teams and with clients. The team at Lees Associates are friendly, busy and really welcoming. I love the freedom to design beautiful spaces and places and I get a real buzz from the process of translating a mental idea into a tangible reality.
What project are you most proud of?
We have just started a project to design and seek planning for the transformation of an historical house in the North of England into a series of luxury apartments. Working around historically significant features increases both the challenges and the rewards.
What are your plans for the future?
At the moment I am concentrating on broadening my architectural knowledge within Lees Associates’ wide range of projects. The goal one day is to become as an accredited RIBA Architect and maybe even start my own practice.
What do you get up to outside of the office?
I am a bit of a foodie, so I enjoy discovering the never-ending diversity of London's restaurants and of course bars. I am a very keen skier, having done a ski season two years ago I am always on the hunt for some fresh powder! I love exploring new cities, being with friends and having fun.