BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology, 2006
Graduating in 2006, John Bridge studied part-time on the University of Central Lancashire’s BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology course and now works as a chartered architect and Director of his own practice: Studio John Bridge Ltd.
John graduated from the course with a first, also winning an award for an international design competition, which he received on the day of his graduation. John states his graduation ceremony as his favourite memory whilst at UCLan. He said: “I was really lucky. It was a great ceremony over at the Guild Hall and back at the Harris building.”
John decided to continue his studies whilst in employment in order to progress his career. The part-time course option allowed him to continue working in the industry he is so passionate about, whilst gaining a recognised qualification.
John originally chose UCLan as he is a proud Prestonian and wanted to study locally, so he could earn and learn at a local practice too. He said: “UCLan was a great fit and my profession is highly reliant upon you having those qualifications.”
In 2018 John won a Civic Award for individual dedication as Project Architect on the Preston Market Regeneration Scheme. Something he is very proud of. Prior to this, he won an award in the Professional Category in the MAKER Shed: Festival of Making Competition. John has also been shortlisted for many other awards post-graduation as well as those he won and was commended for whilst at University.
Reflecting on how his time at UCLan has helped him get to where he is today, John said: “I learnt all my design skills at UCLan and learnt to collaborate with peers and set my sights high with regards to research and competition.”
For anyone looking to do something similar, John's advice would be: “Always take on board feedback but be strong about your design process and theory behind it. Never let anybody get you down with it; always enjoy pushing an idea forward into fruition and stand by it.”