Member Article

Kim and Ali are new architects at Calderpeel

Cheshire-based Calderpeel Architects has two new architects in its ranks after both passed their final exams.

Kimberley Smith and Ali Johnson have now passed the advanced diploma in professional practice in architecture, known in the industry as Part 3, to become fully-qualified architects.

After more than seven years of study and industry experience, both are now professionally recognised as architects by the Architects Registration Board and can now legally use the term architect. They have also become chartered members of the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA).

Kim, who lives in Sale and joined Calderpeel in 2014, said: “I’ve worked in architecture roles in the UK and Middle East before coming to Calderpeel where I’ve gained a great deal of experience. After all the studying, it’s just a huge sense of relief to have finally completed my Part 3. I’m looking forward to working on more exciting projects as a fully-qualified architect.”

Ali, who lives in Manchester and joined the Altrincham-based practice in 2013, added: “I’ve wanted to be an architect from an early age, but it’s a long hard road to become professionally qualified. It feels great to have reached that goal. I couldn’t imagine being in any other profession and I’m looking forward to progressing my career here.”

Ewen Miller, managing director of Calderpeel Architects, said: “I’m very happy for Kim and Ali. Career progression is what we’re all about and it’s part of our constitution as a practice to keep the next generation of architects coming through into senior positions. It’s great to see Kim and Ali flourishing and others coming through behind them too.”

At Calderpeel, Kim and Ali have been working on a wide range of schemes in the residential, superhome, assisted living, office and leisure sectors.

Kim lists the iconic Schindler Chace House in California, and York Minster as among her favourite pieces of architecture, while Ali’s favourite buildings include Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral and the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art in Gateshead.

The path to qualifying as an architect involves gaining an undergraduate degree in architecture, followed by a year’s practical experience, known as Part 1. Part 2 candidates then complete a postgraduate architecture qualification followed by a further 12 months of practical industry experience before they can sit Part 3, which involves the final written and oral examinations.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Calderpeel Architects .