Architecture graduate, Joshua, talks about his career journey

Joshua Allington is working in his dream industry as a Senior Architect at Glenn Howells Architects after studying Architecture at the University of Central Lancashire.

With an interest in design, Joshua Allington wanted a course that would provide him with the perfect blend of creativity and technical challenge, so he chose to study BSc (Hons) Architecture at the University of Central Lancashire.

Talking about his degree choice, Joshua said: “UCLan’s Architecture course was a new programme, it was exciting to be part of the cohort who could help decide the direction of the course.”

Joshua was so impressed with the University that he enrolled on a master’s in Architecture and continued his education in the place that equipped him with the experience he needed to work in the field. He said: “I completed both my undergraduate and postgraduate studies at UCLan. The basis of these courses provided me with the skillset to get to where I am today.

He continued: “I’d like to thank all the tutors that helped me during my time at UCLan. One of the best components of the course is your exposure to talented tutors, UCLan has one of the best students to tutor ratios and it can really help you develop your architectural talent.”

During his postgraduate studies, Joshua worked two days a week for Glenn Howells Architects, where he helped to develop the grounds of two hotels in the Lake District.

Joshua Allington, BSc (Hons) and MArch Architecture graduate
Joshua Allington, BSc (Hons) and MArch Architecture graduate

"One of my favourite memories was standing at our end of year exhibition and just soaking in what we had all achieved. I’ve met some great people through my time at UCLan, some friends for life!"

Joshua Allington, BSc (Hons) and MArch Architecture graduate

After graduating, Joshua started working full-time with Glenn Howells Architects in Birmingham. As part of his role, Joshua put together feasibility proposals to explore the company potentially expanding their facilities. Talking about his company, Joshua said: “They were great with helping me balance my study and placement whilst I was still at UCLan and I felt it was only fair to repay their faith.”

Currently, Joshua is working as a Senior Architect at Glenn Howells Architects. Joshua led on delivering ‘The Mercian’, a 42-storey private rented sector (PRS) scheme for client, Moda Living. The Mercian is Birmingham’s tallest residential scheme to date.

Joshua’s everyday duties involve co-ordinating internal and external teams, developing and designing key elements of the building fabric and speaking with external suppliers and integrating subcontractor design information.

Joshua has also returned to UCLan in recent years for to help current students and he intends to come back in the future. Joshua said: “It’s nice to be able to pass on the experiences and knowledge you’ve gained to the next generation of graduates”

  • Architecture

    The Grenfell Baines Institute of Architecture (GBIA) is home to architecture courses at the University of Central Lancashire. We aim to provoke debate, encourage diversity and develop advances in the profession, placing particular emphasis on conservation, sustainability and env…

  • Architecture, BSc (Hons)

    Our cutting-edge RIBA-accredited BSc (Hons) Architecture course provides you with a comprehensive grounding in design and building technology.

  • Architecture (Part II), MArch

    Our MArch Architecture course focuses on design innovation and current theories of architecture and urbanism to challenge your thinking and prepare you for practice.