Sanjana is from London and is a third year student on BA Architecture at Central Saint Martins.
Why did you choose to study your course and why Central Saint Martins (CSM)?
I wanted to combine my interests in art and design and geography, and learn more about how design can be a tool for creating a better society. This resulted in me taking an interest in architecture, as its main principle is to serve people and their needs. CSM's open-minded approach to spatial design called to me, and I knew that here I would learn a lot. Social, environmental and ethical justice underscores the Architecture course at CSM which resonated with me. In my three years at CSM I have imbibed these values deeply and all the opportunities so far have allowed me to continually address these.
What’s the most interesting project you’ve worked on so far? What made it so interesting to work on?
My second year project was about Queer Spaces, and how queer (and other radical) theories can be a useful reference when designing for a more inclusive, accessible and celebratory future in architecture. The project has been the most interesting and fruitful thus far, as it gave me the opportunity to push myself creatively and explore not only new ways of architectural thinking, but to create my own and develop a design language that is personal and powerful. I had the opportunity to combine fine art, intersectional feminist, queer practice and architectural knowledge together, and design a space for artists that are at the forefront of radical change. Using tools that derive from my interests has made me more confident in my creative process.
What important piece of advice would you give to students thinking of studying this course?
Architecture requires taking creative risks and testing new design ideas out. Learning and growing comes from taking that step forward into unchartered territory. Don't feel bad if you don't understand something at first - ask your peers, tutors or lecturers. I assure you that only good things will come from risk-taking!
What has been the highlight of your CSM experience so far?
At the end of first year we curated our end of year show, engaging with a local primary school and making our design ideas come to life. This opportunity helped us manifest our spatial design knowledge. We made posters and a website to accompany our exhibition.
What are your career aspirations? Where would you like to be in five years time?
After graduation, I hope to find a job in a practice that reflects the principles I've developed during my undergraduate study. My dream is to be an all-rounded designer working on architectural projects, but also exhibition curation, make an architectural journal, present at design biennales and teaching. I want to do it all!
What is the most important thing you've learnt on the course so far?
Architecture is all about making a lot of fast and informed decisions, which can be intense, but also super rewarding. Keep sharing your work with your peers, tutors and online platforms and be proud of the work you are creating. Ask your colleagues for help if you are finding things difficult; someone else might have knowledge that you can benefit from.
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