MODULE 01
LESSONS 1–4
LESSONS 1–4
Narrative & Design Exploration
Study context, 21st-century precedents, and a design thesis; then test initial ideas through sketches, massing models, site response, and visualisation.
Architecture studio for ages 13+
Portfolio
Building
Course
Two 16-hour pathways for students preparing to think, make, and communicate a distinctive architectural portfolio.
Two pathwaysChoose your framework
16 hoursEach track
2 students maxPer class
Portfolio-readyProcess and proposal
One offer, two ways to begin
Choose the framework
that fits your thinking.
Portfolio building is not one-size-fits-all. Some students begin by responding to a site, programme, and design brief; others begin with a personal obsession, a creative habit, or a story that is already theirs.
Our two Portfolio Building pathways give students the framework that best fits their learning style, current skill level, and target university requirements.
Pathway comparison
Which pathway is
right for you?
| Feature | Option A: Context-Driven Track | Option B: Identity-Driven Track |
|---|---|---|
| Who It Is For | Beginner students wanting to try architecture for the first time. | Committed applicants with strong design interests ready to build a full, high-impact university portfolio. |
| Primary Driver | External parameters: site, analysis, programme, and physical constraints. | Internal narrative: hobbies, routines, personal history, artefacts, sound, and art. |
| Main Strength | Introductory taste of real-world studio design processes. | High originality, personal voice, and portfolio distinction. |
| Project Output | Realistic spatial design tied to a specific location and user brief. | Conceptual spatial proposal expressing an authentic personal thesis. |
Option A
From context
Context-Driven Track · Project Simulation
From context
to proposal.
A 16-hour, project-based introduction to the architecture studio. Students work with an external brief, site conditions, precedents, and programme to learn how architects move from research to proposal.
This is a supportive taster for students who want to experience the design process.
MODULE 02
LESSONS 5–8
LESSONS 5–8
Design Refinement & Final Proposal
Refine the strongest direction into spatial logic, material, atmosphere, drawings, models, portfolio pages, and a final presentation.
Context & Brief Deconstruction
Analyse a given real-world site and programme brief, identifying spatial constraints, environmental conditions, and user needs.
Site Analysis & Diagramming
Map physical site parameters—sun path, circulation, views, and topography—and translate findings into foundational spatial diagrams and sketch explorations.
Form-Finding & Architectural Drafting
Develop physical scale-study models and basic architectural drawings, including floor plans, sections, and elevations, to solve the brief’s spatial requirements.
Studio Presentation & Review
Package the project onto layout boards, photograph physical models, and present the final proposal in a simulated university studio critique.
Option B
Identity
PILLAR 01
PILLAR 02
PILLAR 03
PILLAR 04
Make the personal portfolio
Identity-Driven Track · Personal Portfolio Incubator
Identity
to Design.
This 16-hour identity-first approach to portfolio building uses physical workshops, software, and fabrication tools as narrative converters.
Students translate personal obsessions—hobbies, sound, art, or daily routines—into authentic, university-grade spatial portfolios.
MODULE 01
LESSONS 1–4
LESSONS 1–4
Identity Mining & Conceptual Translation
Unearths a student’s personal identity and translates their non-design interests into tactile spatial concepts through guided material experimentation and custom prompts.
MODULE 02
LESSONS 5–8
LESSONS 5–8
Advanced Fabrication & Portfolio Curation
Translates conceptual spatial ideas into technical digital fabrications—such as 3D printing and CAD modeling—and documents the full process into a polished, university-ready portfolio layout.
Personal Identity Mining
One-to-one diagnostic mentorship and identity-mapping worksheets extract personal obsessions to define a unique spatial thesis.
Medium Translation & Raw Process
Physical material labs in clay, wire, and acrylic turn abstract personal themes into tactile spatial experiments before digital work begins.
Open-Prompt Project & Technical Integration
Open-ended themes drive CAD, BIM, laser cutting, and 3D printing toward a personalised spatial proposal.
Curation & Visual Storytelling
Photography-studio work and graphic-design principles compile process, iterations, and physical artefacts into a compelling visual layout.
Make the personal portfolio
only you can make.
Convert personal identity and non-design interests into an authentic architectural thesis.
Use 3D printing, laser cutting, CAD, and BIM as storytelling vehicles.
Curate a professional, university-ready portfolio that highlights process and individual voice.
Skills and fit
Start where you are.
Build what is yours.
Both pathways are open to all foundational levels; no prior CAD or software experience is required. Classes are capped at two students, allowing concentrated mentoring and feedback.
Option A suits younger explorers and beginners who want a structured entry into studio process. Option B suits committed applicants and creative thinkers ready to turn their art, hobbies, routines, and personal passions into a standout university portfolio.
Evidence of process
Proof of potential.
Shared course details
Time, tools,
and constructive challenge.
Both 16-hour pathways include studio-led teaching, project guidance, portfolio-development support, material exploration, and feedback.
Course structureOption A or Option B · 16 hours each · maximum 2 students per class
Entry levelOpen to all foundational levels · no prior CAD or software experience required
ToolsHands-on materials, software, and fabrication tools selected for the chosen pathway
Schedule & feesBoth tracks share the same fee structure. Ask the studio for the current schedule and availability.
Portfolio consultation
Ages 13–18
Portfolio Consultation.
Feel free to arrange a face-to-face meeting with our team to explore the best approach to portfolio building for your own preference.
Start the conversation
Find the track that fits
your ambition.
Tell us where you are in your design journey and which pathway interests you. We will help you select the right starting point for your portfolio.