Bio-ID alumni spotlight: Vasiliki Panagiotidou

What inspired you to study the Bio-ID MSc/MArch at The Bartlett School of Architecture? 

I was greatly inspired by the experimental approach to architecture, the out-of-the-box thinking when addressing contemporary, architecture-related challenges, and the innovative approach to sustainability in design. This programme was a great place for architects like me who are seeking to merge science, technology and design in meaningful ways in our attempt to contribute positively to the built environment and the planet.  

What aspects of the course did you enjoy the most or have a significant impact on you? 

The most enjoyable aspect of the course was its multidisciplinary environment. That shifted my design thinking and got me continuously questioning: how could we integrate multiple parameters and limitations from different sources (fabrication, laboratory, design) into a final, complex but comprehensive proposal? And most of all: how do you design with the living and not only for the living? The course facilities were also an important asset that allowed hands-on gaining of knowledge and experience. By integrating them into your weekly practice you can step out of the speculation zone and into the real world of applied design, making all the explorations even more valuable and impactful. 

Can you tell us about your current role and what it involves? 

 I work as an architect at Foster and Partners in London. I have been involved in multiple stages of design for projects of different scales and contexts. Working as an architect in an international, large scale firm, the daily tasks are quite diverse and involve the development, preparation and presentation of ideas, drawings and models as well as the collaboration with internal and external specialist teams of all kinds to address diverse aspects of the project and reach solutions in an informed and holistic way.  

What skills, knowledge, and experiences gained at the course have been most useful in your career?  

It is always hard to isolate only a few moments or experiences along such a rich and knowledge-packed ride. Undoubtedly, the exposure to an interdisciplinary cohort was extremely useful, as it helped me train in communicating my ideas to different crowds. It also helped me understand fully my area of expertise as an architect and how I could contribute from that position to collaborate with others to address complex questions that require more than one specialty’s input. That goes hand in hand with the development of an integrated design ethos which I cherish and still work on every day as a professional. 

How has studying at the course shaped your career?  

Studying at Bio-ID equipped me with all the skills, knowledge and experiences I mentioned above. All of them shaped my attitude as a professional, by strengthening my confidence in problem-solving and quick development of ideas. This course consolidated in me the importance of belonging to a team, of interdisciplinary collaboration and of integration of multiple sources, parameters and ideas into holistic, integrated design proposals that focus on sustainability. All of these are key elements of my professional approach to architecture and my career post-graduation. 

What resources, networks, or opportunities (inside or outside Bartlett) helped you advance in your career? 

In terms of resources, the well-equipped workshops, laboratories and studios gave me the opportunity to train my skills on multiple areas using the latest software and advanced fabrication tools. This valuable knowledge helped me greatly in my career by giving me the confidence and competence to apply my skills in practice and to be able to collaborate with specialists on a daily basis. 

What advice would you give to future students aspiring to pursue the course?

Be open-minded to non-linear ways of thinking and designing, approach every challenge as an opportunity to learn more about a topic and about yourself and embrace the learning curve with a positive spirit. Stay dedicated and committed to your dreams and aspirations even through the tough moments. And make sure you enjoy it to the fullest!