Mandeep Mattu

Year of Graduation: 2015

  • Course BSc Interior Architecture & Property Development
  • School School of Architecture and Built Environment
  • Nationality British
  • Career industry Architecture
  • Current job title Associate
  • Current Company TNM Design Group

The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. Success is no accident, it is hard work.

For many, the best memory is graduation at the end of three years of boozing, library all-nighters and rushed deadlines. That last lecture seems an age away, and that last scrawled deadline is already long forgotten. But the important bit is that all the team made it to graduation, collecting their degree on what is for many one last trip onto university main campus. Lecturers were so supportive throughout the whole three years and always pushed you to achieve more. I was nominated for a Women in Property Award during my first year at university which then led on to receiving Outstanding Student Award by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists on my graduation ceremony. Another favourite memory was having all my family and friends attend the end of year graduation presentation night where we showcased our final year projects.
Studying an architecture degree, helped me develop a range of very desirable creative, visual, practical and design-based skills which were required in professional practice. I was able to learn new technology such as Revit which is BIM software providing architects and designers with the tools they need to develop accurate, higher-quality architectural designs. I gained practical experience of developing design briefs, specifications and developing creative design solutions which would satisfy both the user and regulatory requirements. I became fully conversant with the main aspects of the discipline, namely design procedures, building regulations, planning requirements, design technology, procurement and contracts and professional practice.
My key responsibilities are: *To liaise with clients to capture the scope of works and their requirements. *Produce feasibility studies and design reports in accordance with the agreed scope of works. *Prepare technical drawings, design layouts, tender information to satisfy the client's brief and construction pack. *Produce BIM models and 3D renders/designs. *Manage and deliver projects on site from design to handover. *Manage the day to day queries from site, quantity surveyors, project team. *Assist the Building Surveyors by producing drawing information for refurbishment schemes and conditions surveys. *Guest speaker for Birmingham Schools, University of Wolverhampton, Coventry University – sharing career success, BIM training, promoting women in architecture.
The opportunity to set up a brand new company with my colleagues - TNM.
Keep track of your deadlines, attend classes and tutorials regularly, and put your education first. As students we have a tendency to forget the importance of learning especially in the midst of managing deadlines, trying to moderate our caffeine intake. You have the chance to taste-test different programmes, learn from experts in diverse fields, explore your passions to tailor your academic and career paths. Something that I regret not having done during my university years is going on exchange or volunteering internationally. Gain experience through an international internship and learn a new language, little things that can make your professional portfolio more competitive in the job market. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you are feeling overworked, stressed or in need of advice, the university has many resources on campus. Mental health issues in particular are becoming increasingly prominent among students, and nobody should feel afraid to speak up