Keen to maintain and reinforce the design profile of Stride Treglown in the South West, Alastair is a trustee of the Cornwall Architecture Trust.
Alastair is responsible for our Plymouth and Truro offices where he leads on a number of projects in the South West, and on laboratory and research buildings nationally. His primary focus is during the initial stages of a project, leading them through planning approval.
Why did you choose a career in architecture?
I really enjoy art. Despite taking my study of science to a higher level at school, art has remained my greatest passion. I regretted not pursuing it academically, and it wasn’t until I discovered architecture that I was able to combine the two; architecture has enabled me to rediscover art in science.
What is the best networking event you’ve been to?
It’s not so much networking events, but chance conversations with people I can have a rapport with; it’s these kind of informal and natural meetings that transform into the best projects. You realise you’d enjoy working with one another because you connect on a common interest.
What is the greatest invention ever?
The wooden 2b pencil – it’s the easiest way to get across the essence of a design. As architects, we tend to draw while we are talking, so the pencil is a way to translate thoughts onto paper and work together to develop the best project.
What advice would you give your 20 year old self?
Don’t overcomplicate your designs.
What is the best book you’ve read?
Well the book I’ve read most repeatedly is Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss. After being challenged by his editor to write a book with less than 50 different words, he published this in 1960, yet it’s still a children’s best seller. I’ve read it to my three kids rather a lot, and it’s a very clever book that’s helped them to learn to read. Not over complicating things and keeping it simple is something architects could definitely learn from.
Industry Bodies:
- RIBA
Awards:
- Heartlands, Cornwall won an RIBA National Award, RPPI National Award and the RICS Project of Year in the South West and Wales.