Whilst undertaking his college studies, Chris Wilkinson’s tutors tried to discourage a career in architecture. After a further year at art college, instinct kicked in, and Chris overlooked his teachers’ deterrent, treading the architectural career path. Today, he sits at the helm of Jo Cowen Architects (JCA). In this Q&A, we talk to Chris and follow his route to landing several positions at some of the country’s most notable architecture firms.

Daniel Collins established PolkeyCollins Associates with Clive Polkey in 2012, after working together at a national commercial practice. During this time, he worked as a respected Architect to lead various projects across several sectors. Here, FC&A talks to Daniel to learn more about his industry experience and path to forming the Lincoln-based architecture practice.

Chris White has been with CPMG Architects for the past 18 years and became an Owner and Board Director in 2016. As the lead for CPMG’s London studio, he is delivering the strategic vision for growth, with a key focus on residential, commercial and aviation projects.

Ben McKenna started out studying interior architecture at Brighton. From there, he joined a small practice that worked in sensitive locations in rural Kent and Sussex. Ben’s work here was focused on listed building alterations and rural housing. With a desire to expand on what he’d learnt working at a small practice, Ben joined Conran and Partners to work largely on estate regeneration and residential projects in London and the South East. Having recently joined DMWR Architects, Ben talks to us about his time at Conran and Partners and runs through a few of his favourite designs.

Niralee Casson came to architecture slightly later than most, having already achieved a degree in law before deciding to make the switch. With her student loan already used up, she undertook all of her architectural education on a part-time basis whilst working full-time at Assael Architecture; in 2018, she was finishing her Part 2, starting her Part 3 and working all simultaneously. Here, we talk to Niralee about her switch from law to architecture.