Charlie Kentish

About me

  • Senior Architect at Snøhetta
  • Studied: Master of Architecture, 2013

About my career

Initially, I worked as a designer at Heatherwick Studio. I then went on to complete my Part 3 and moved to Singapore for the Studio as the resident architect for a high-end residential project and the new airport terminal. Whilst in Singapore working for Heatherwick Studio my job was site architect for Eden, and resident architect for Changi Terminal 5. The role for Eden was a design guardian position to ensure that the quality of the project and addressing any onsite issues. I would be involved in regular client meetings and representing the Studio in Asia. As resident architect for Changi T5 I was the work stream lead between local architects, engineers, client team and the team in London and New York. We worked closely with KPF as joint design partners for the project. I was also Heatherwick Studio representative for the retail elements of the Airport liaising regularly with stakeholders. I recently changed jobs to work for Snøhetta. My role will include project leadership and construction coordination.

Manchester School of Architecture gave me a confidence to pursue my career aspirations. It was always encouraged to collaborate in our unit and share knowledge, working across departments. It was very beneficial to have the School of Art as a resource. My thesis project was based on weaving and there was a wealth of knowledge with the Department of Textiles and Manchester Fashion School on campus. Everyone was willing to help and collaborate.

I undertook a year out between my Part 1 and Part 2, when I worked for a Columbian couple who specialise in high-end residential projects, and at Glenn Howells where I worked on several civic projects. It was very useful to get different experiences before returning to undertake my Part 2. It gave a broader understanding of the industry and allowed me to consider carefully the type of practice I wanted to work in after graduation.

My top tip for students

Before I secured a job, I regularly entered architectural competitions. This is a great way to develop your skills and get your name out there.

I’m inspired by

I am inspired by being faced with a difficult design problem that require logical and artistic thought to solve.

Why I love Manchester Met

The friends that were made at the School and tutors.

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