In conversation with: Tracey Lin, BA (Hons) Architecture student

About Tracey

Hello, my name is Tracey! I am a BA (Hons) Architecture student here at Norwich University of the Arts. I am originally from the rival town of this city (yes exactly what you are thinking) but I prefer Norwich! I am currently in my third year and I am exploring the practice of filial piety within the architectural space and how human existence is quite fragile.

Why did you choose to study at Norwich?

Norwich was close to home and it had the subject that I have always been interested in, that being architecture! I was also impressed during an Open Day by how the course challenges you and how the skills gained could benefit other career paths. The BA (Hons) Architecture course is a hard journey, but a rewarding one. The tutors are always there to push you further and take your project to the next level. I have noticed that tutors take the time to understand each student’s projects, allowing them to personalise their guidance and support the student’s development. Tutors value individuality and want students to have their own voices to develop their own design style.

What does an average day or week look like?

I live in a student house that is a 30-minute walk to the University and I often walk into the city with my housemates. I am not normally a morning person, however, being able to walk through the city allows me to refresh myself before getting to Boardman House. In the morning it is quite chill, with a lecture from the tutor that sets the context for the day. They outline their expectations, provide precedents, share portfolios of student work, and offer general knowledge about the architecture field to support our projects. Once the morning lecture is finished, we move into studio time, where teachers come around and give feedback on our work. During this time students have conversations and bounce ideas off one another. The architecture cohort all know one another and we encourage each other to achieve our highest potential. It is always a creative environment!

“I love living in Norwich, it has about everything you would want in a place, especially the busy market with food from all around the world. A bustling student environment and something to do each day whether that is going to a park or going shopping there is always something new to discover. ”

How do you stay inspired and where do you look for inspiration?

One thing that keeps me inspired is the architectural workplace as I have a lot of work experience within the industry and it is absolutely the space for me. I like the busy environment and the atmosphere among architects and engineers; it is so motivating. I want to make a change by implementing sustainable strategies within my designs so that they can potentially provide help towards the future of the Earth. An architect that I admire and take inspiration from is Kengo Kuma as he implements a sustainable approach to architecture. The way he uses timber to create dynamic shaping is outstanding.

How do you make use of the University facilities?

The wonderful thing about Norwich is its extensive facilities enable all students to explore various mediums for expressing their ideas. I have been able to use the laser cutters in Boardman House and Guntons Building. I have also been able to experiment with plaster of Paris and created a mould of my hand which I went onto cast. Norwich is well-equipped with facilities to meet students’ needs such as laser cutting, 3D printers, or woodworking and metalworking.

What advice would you offer someone who is studying Architecture?

It is important to take every opportunity that is thrown at you because that will improve your knowledge as a student. It is necessary to find a good work-life balance so you do not overwork yourself, have a break by doing something that is important to you.