Interview: Talking Careers with Alexander Symes Architect

This is an interview by SITE for CO Architecture, read the full interview HERE.

Alex founded Alexander Symes Architect in 2014 with a mission to advance sustainable architecture which now permeates in every aspect of his practice and projects. We caught up with Alex recently to learn more about his path into architecture and his advice for current job seekers.

Why did you choose architecture as a career?

I was a late developer academically however I always had a passion for communicating through drawing and making things. These skills along with my interests in both the physical and social sciences meant that Architecture seemed like the natural fit. From memory my careers testing at school recommended either Architecture or Floristry. Being that most of my decisions at school involved not putting ones head above the parapet I choose to do work experience with an Architect and never looked back, however I do tend to daydream when I walk past florists.

Where was your first architecture job?

My first job was at Gunter Schwarz Design in Wollongong in the summer school holidays between year 11 & 12 of high school and then I continued to work for Gunter during school holidays and then university holidays for a couple of years. Gunter was an incredibly generous Architect who gave me design projects from a very early stage and mentored me through concept development and hand drawing development applications. Gunter took me out for lunch nearly everyday at one of his restaurants where I would sit and listen to his advice on being an Architect. I did however have to move tables when it came to coffee time as I drank milk in my coffee and sitting at a table with someone who had milk in their coffee was a step too far!

Best piece of advice you could give to job seekers who are currently looking / applying for roles?

Follow your interests. In 2006 when I graduated I felt very uneasy about the practice of Architecture and went on a very deliberate path at trying to find practices that helped me quantify environmental benefit of different design and construction options. It took me years but my persistence and a lot of luck managed to land a job in Arup’s sustainable buildings team in 2010. The people I meet and the process I learnt during those 4.5 years have helped me shape how I practice. I had to step back to be a “graduate” however it accelerated my skillset and made me a well rounded designer.

The biggest mistake you see applicants make with their job applications?

My recommendation would be to be very targeted with who you are applying to and why you are applying to them. Share why you want to work at that practice and why you will add value.