MEET THE TEAM: PEARL JAMES
In the latest of our ‘Meet the Team’ series, we talk to Architectural Assistant, New Zealander Pearl James.
What got you into architecture originally?
I must admit it was my obsession with The Sims PC game! During my childhood, I would spend hours meticulously building different houses and even went to the effort of sketching them out on paper beforehand. Other than that, I have always been a creative person, with hobbies such as drawing and painting, while having a keen interest in how things are put together. So naturally, my passion for architecture was born.
Describe your role at Lees Associates
Initially joining completely remotely during the peak of the pandemic and UK lockdown, I have already been involved in numerous, very exciting projects. My days mainly consist of assisting in tasks under the supervision of the project architect, including completing drawing packages for planning, tender and construction stages; 3D modelling in ArchiCAD; and attending design/client meetings.
Where do your particular passions, skills and interests lie?
Having moved to the UK from New Zealand in 2020, my professional experience in NZ was completely different to the style and scale of work I am now part of at Lees Associates. From the get-go I have been introduced to an intensely rich architectural history and different construction methods that have been interesting to learn and research. Moreover, due to the type of work Lees Associates is involved in, from heritage buildings to luxury commercial shop-fittings, the company has been the perfect introduction for me into the UK’s prime architectural realm.
This is particularly exciting for me as I have a keen interest in commercial architecture, particularly boutiques and restaurants; as well as prime residential builds. Seeing these projects come to fruition will always be fulfilling to me.
What do you enjoy most about what you do?
Something I love about architecture is that everything you see in an architectural environment begins as a single idea in someone’s head; and eventually that idea becomes physically realised. As a creative person, I thoroughly enjoy the process of getting to “the end product”. As the architectural industry is vast and complex, working within it is full of these processes, and I love that I am constantly learning. No two projects are ever the same.
I am also able to work with an incredibly talented and welcoming team of people that have made my transition into the company very enjoyable. The office is also located in my favourite part of London next to Borough Market, a foodie heaven!
Which project are you most proud of?
I recently completed the drawing packages for both tender and construction for a prestigious fine watch boutique in Harrods. This was fast-paced and enjoyable, giving an interesting insight into how luxury brands undergo their shop fit-outs. I am also currently working on an extremely exciting house extension for a mansion on the Crown Estate in Oxshott. Never would I have thought I would be involved in a project quite like this! As it is still in its final design stages, I cannot wait to be able to help this project come to life in the coming months.
What are your plans for the future?
Right now I am interested in learning as much as possible about the architecture industry in the UK. I feel I still have a lot to learn, especially coming from a different built environment in New Zealand. However, I feel as though I have struck gold in landing my position at Lees Associates, as I am now part of a company ‘family’ where I know I will be learning from, and working with, the best. I do hope to become a registered architect in the future, and will enrol in a Part 3 course when I feel I am ready.