From industry experience to architectural design

After decades working in the building and construction industry, John Young made the decision to return to study, bringing a wealth of real-world experience into his Bachelor of Design (Architecture) at the University of Newcastle.

“I am a mature age student, married with two adult children, and have spent most of my life in the Newcastle and Maitland areas,” he explains.

Before starting his degree, John worked as an electrician on major construction projects across Australia before transitioning into electrical engineering design and 3D drafting.

“I decided to study architecture after completing diplomas in Building Design and Industrial Design at Newcastle TAFE. These courses gave me credit for 6 subjects in the degree” he says.

Now in his final year, John has found the hands-on, studio-based approach to learning a highlight of the program.

“I have particularly enjoyed all my studio subjects, as we are able to design real-world buildings that can be situated in existing locations,” he shares.

A standout moment in his degree came when his work was selected for inclusion in the Newcastle Museum ‘Big Stories, Little Things’ exhibition.

“Having my model selected for the exhibition was a very proud moment, and an encouraging reward for my love of model making,” he says.

The project, developed as part of a studio brief, involved designing an off-grid hiking cabin in the Glenrock State Conservation Area. The design required careful consideration of sustainability, site conditions, and how people interact with the natural environment.

For John, the exhibition highlighted the role architecture plays in communicating ideas beyond the classroom.

“Overall, I think the exhibition demonstrated how small-scale models can communicate big ideas about place, design, and community throughout the history of Newcastle,” he says.

He also reflects on the importance of design thinking in architecture, drawing on both his studies and industry experience.

“Architectural history is important because it teaches you how to think, not what to design,” he shares.

“It gives you precedent, context, and critical awareness, tools you'll keep using long after university.”

For John, studying architecture has been about applying practical knowledge to complex, real-world challenges.

“It enabled me to tackle complex, real-world problems, as well as urban, social, and environmental issues,” he says.

Looking ahead, he sees the future of architecture as increasingly shaped by sustainability, technology and community needs.

“Future architecture is moving toward buildings that are sustainable, adaptive, and technology driven,” he notes.

For those considering studying architecture, John encourages a practical and committed approach.

“You need to enjoy the process, not just the outcome,” he says. “Learn to take (and use) criticism and engage with real-world issues.”

Architectural history is important because it teaches you how to think, not what to design.