Designing with a global perspective

As a final-year Bachelor of Design (Architecture) student at the University of Newcastle, Mackenzie McDermott is already thinking beyond borders, combining studio learning with international study and real-world design thinking as a New Colombo Plan Scholar.

“I am currently finishing my final year abroad at the Singapore University of Technology and Design as a New Colombo Plan Scholar,” she explains.

Mackenzie’s interest in architecture began early and has continued to shape her path.

“When I was 8 years old (2014), I saw online CAD images of an architectural initiative called ‘Paris Smart City 2050’… and in that moment, I knew I wanted to become an architect,” she says.

Growing up in a defence family, she lived in 16 different homes over 20 years, an experience that shaped how she sees space, place and design.

“I spent countless nights mentally reconfiguring layouts, detailing, and aesthetics to make those temporary spaces feel like home,” she says.

“This constant adaptation made architecture feel like a calling rather than just a career choice.”

Her decision to study at the University of Newcastle was influenced by the strong studio environment and access to meaningful feedback.

“The teacher to student ratio and engagement in student works was exemplary and ultimately pushed me to apply for Newcastle,” she shares.

A key highlight of her degree has been seeing her work displayed publicly as part of the Newcastle Museum 'Big Stories, Little Things' exhibition, where student projects were showcased beyond the classroom.

“Having my work in a public museum shifted my perspective from completing an assignment to contributing to a conversation,” she says.

“It served as a reminder that architecture is ultimately about public impact.”

“The exhibition completely shifted my perspective by demonstrating that architecture is a public-facing dialogue, not just a studio-based exercise,” she adds.

Through her studies, Mackenzie has developed a strong understanding of how design connects to real-world challenges.

“The program is remarkably hands-on, with briefs that are almost always rooted in the Newcastle or Hunter region. This allows us to physically visit our sites, conduct deep-tissue analysis, and apply our work to real-world, local challenges,” she explains

Now studying internationally in Singapore, she is gaining new insights into how architecture responds to different environments, cultures and urban conditions.

“Studying internationally has completely deconstructed my understanding of what a standard design solution looks like,” she says.

“It has made my own design approach far more adaptable and nuanced.”

Experiencing different approaches to density, sustainability and urban design has broadened her perspective on the role architecture can play globally, reinforcing her interest in environmentally responsive and socially impactful design.

Looking ahead, Mackenzie plans to continue her studies and pursue a career shaped by global experience and a strong design philosophy.

“I am entering the profession with a clear set of values and a strong foundation, but I am equally eager to let my path be shaped by new cultures, unexpected challenges, and the evolving needs of the built environment,” she says.

Reflecting on her journey, Mackenzie says the most valuable part of her degree has been the perspective it has given her.

“Looking back, the most rewarding aspect of my degree hasn’t just been the accolades or the exhibitions, but the perspective I’ve gained,” she says.

“The University of Newcastle has been more than just a place of study; it’s been a launchpad that allowed me to transition from a student who simply dreamed of big towers to a designer who understands the responsibility of building for people.”

For students considering architecture, she encourages making the most of the studio experience and embracing every opportunity.

“Don’t be afraid to share your ideas, ask for feedback early and often, and treat the studio as your second home,” she says.

“If you stay passionate and open to the ‘twists and turns’, this degree will take you places you never even imagined.”

Having my work in a public museum shifted my perspective from completing an assignment to contributing to a conversation.