Turning creativity into a career in architecture

While completing a Bachelor of Design (Architecture) at the University of Newcastle, Sage McLean is already gaining hands-on industry experience as an architectural assistant at a firm in Newcastle. Originally from the Mid North Coast, Sage balances study alongside freelance design and creative work, building both practical experience and a strong creative foundation while completing the degree.

“I’m super lucky to be involved in all parts of the design process, from briefing and measuring up to design and drafting and site visits,” Sage says.

For her, architecture offered the opportunity to combine creativity with real-world impact. A passion for design and the way architecture shapes people’s lives inspired the decision to pursue the field.

“I loved seeing the way architects live and think about the world,” Sage says. “It’s a discipline that allows you to express yourself, inspire change and better other’s lives.”

The interactive studio environment and focus on environmentally informed design were key reasons for choosing the University of Newcastle. Throughout the degree, Sage has enjoyed the variety of studio experiences and the opportunity to approach projects through different perspectives and design approaches.

“Each studio teaches you so much about different aspects of architecture,” she says. “Some are really practical and hands on, pragmatic and real-world focussed, while others are more abstract, conceptual artistic and political.”

“I like that you get a taste of everything, but still get to apply your own lens to each project,” Sage adds.

Alongside developing creative thinking, the degree has also helped Sage build the practical and technical skills needed to work in industry. Learning about construction, building standards and design processes has directly supported work in practice, while university projects and artwork helped build a strong portfolio.

“Practically, learning about building standards and construction but also by practising design thinking and processes,” she says. “Also exposure to the millions of great precedents out there.”

Sage secured the role through “a good portfolio of previous work, uni projects and artwork,” demonstrating how the degree encourages students to develop both creative and industry-ready skills.

One of the biggest highlights of the degree has been the studio culture and friendships formed throughout the program. Sage says the projects and design briefs offered through each studio have challenged perspectives far beyond architecture itself.

“Being offered such fun and inspiring design briefs each studio which expand your perspectives on not just your studies, but your entire world.”

Looking ahead, Sage is preparing to undertake a semester exchange overseas, an experience expected to broaden perspectives on architecture and design even further.

“I’m about to head to Madrid for a semester of exchange which I’m sure will be a highlight,” Sage says.

“I would love to experience as much as I can in as many different settings as I can,” Sage says. “Travelling and exploring are a definite.”

Future career goals remain open, with interests spanning travel, teaching and potentially running a practice one day.

“I think teaching architecture would be cool, being able to inspire other people, but also running my own practice would be awesome,” Sage adds. “So many goals I’m open to anything!”

For Sage, one of the most exciting aspects of architecture is its ability to shape the future and respond to a rapidly changing world.

“The world is in a state of such rapid change and while this is largely digital, our built environment still shapes society immensely,” Sage says. “I’m interested to see what this means for the future of architectural practice on a larger global scale.”

For students considering architecture, Sage encourages approaching the degree with curiosity and creativity.

“Approach it with an open and creative mind!” Sage says.

It’s a discipline that allows you to express yourself, inspire change and better other’s lives.