Contact Tristan Hubbard, Architectural Assistant
tristan.hubbard@benoy.com
We’re delighted to welcome back Tristan Hubbard, who has re-joined Benoy for a Summer placement after completing his industry placement as Part 1 Architectural Assistant in 2023. Here, Tristan tells us about how he’s applied his new skills and insights and offers advice to architecture students looking for a placement.
Return to Future Thinking
Firstly, returning to Benoy offered the chance to reconnect with both old and new colleagues who have been a great source of support. Working in such a creative and diverse office, where I previously spent a year, provides a familiar yet stimulating environment. Secondly, there were opportunities to expand my skill set, communication, and develop additional software skills. Through this, and on a personal level, I will see what areas of architecture I want to be in post masters.
Architecture today is much broader than the traditional role of the architect. Where you fit into the increased technologically advanced world is in an interesting question for the next wave Architects, Engineers and Designers.
At the Bartlett, I’ve expanded my expertise from Rhino and Grasshopper to animation with Blender and immersive media using Unreal Engine 5. These tools hold huge potential for creating dynamic, interactive models that enhance communication and user experience. My focus has been on understanding how these technologies can interact and integrate, creating ecosystems where they support and amplify each other. My university encourages curiosity and confidence to mess with tools and process.
Returning to Benoy, I’m excited to balance these advanced digital workflows with the freedom of hand-drawn sketches. Sketching offers a creative liberation that transcends the constraints of software, allowing imagination to flow freely and unimpeded by technical limitations.
I’ve always been drawn to storytelling, especially through sketches. Lately, I’ve been focusing on the thought process behind what I’m trying to convey and how best to resolve it visually. One exercise I’m playing with is sketching with thicker pens and as few strokes as possible. This approach brings me closer to the initial spark of imagination, capturing the essence of an idea in its purest form. As the project evolves, more lines and resolution can be added, but it’s this simplicity that keeps the original vision alive. Refining story and process comes with time.
While there is often high pressure on software proficiency, demonstrating the ability to think critically and problem-solve will keep more doors open for your future. Your portfolios should illustrate your ability to strategically utilize tools when necessary, rather than being dictated by them. When portfolios prioritize tool usage over thoughtful application, they may appear extensive but lack meaningful substance. I understand the pressure to dazzle with images but the ability to thoughtfully self-assess strengths and weaknesses, alongside clear communication, are key values employers will look for in a new team member.
Creating tools for immersive storytelling platforms that engage users through intuitive and responsive interfaces sounds interesting!
Image credits
Image 1 — Drawing showing facade idea and space programming
Image 2 — Orthographic section understanding where green space is introduced to the scheme
Image 3 — Concept sketch displaying ground floor activation strategy and sea views
