Matt Swanton – MA Professional Practice: Architecture

Matt Swanton, 28, is studying for the MA Professional Practice Architecture while working for Format Milton Architects Ltd in Hampshire.

"Ever since I was a child I've been obsessed with buildings. I used to build things in my back yard at home and since then there's never been any other career choice for me. I sometimes feel like architecture is more than just my passion – it's like I caught a disease that I can't shake off!

"I studied all my architecture qualifications at Portsmouth and I've been very happy with my choice. Portsmouth's MA is more in-depth than some courses, which probably means you work a bit harder, but it pays dividends in the end because you're doing the groundwork. You're only cheating yourself if you take an easy route.

"The MA is accredited by the Architects Registration Board (ARB) and the Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) and requires you to take on a real-life project from inception to completion, taking you through all the RIBA work stages.

"My case study was to design a new school hall where all the children could come together as a large group for sports, assembly and mealtimes etc.

"I wanted to create a modern design and impart a sense of fun into the structure but needed to ensure it was visually in keeping with the original school building. The site was situated in a conservation area within the grounds of a Grade 1 listed church which made it even more of a challenge. It was a delicate balancing act but I think I've achieved it.

"It was the first time I'd worked on a whole project from start to finish and it's taught me a staggering amount. You take on everything – from engaging with the client and working on drawings at the design stage, through the tendering process to getting involved with the contractors on the building site.

"It makes you look at your work in a different light, you re-evaluate it at every stage. Writing up my case study I've been analysing what I've done, thinking about what I could have done differently, what I could have done better. And seeing my sketches come to life for the first time, well I'm told that stays with you forever."