The Architecture and Design Foundation year is a great opportunity for students to prepare for advanced study before progressing onto their main degree programme.

The Foundation year offers an introduction and explores the creative professions within architecture and design. Students will gain the essential creative skills and experience practical learning across a wide range of areas such as Architecture and Interiors, Architectural Technology and Planning and Urban Design.

In this blog, Fatemeh Ghalichehbbaf Vosoughiand and Arek Di Giacinto, reflect on their experience of studying the Architecture and Design Foundation year and look ahead to studying the Architecture BA course.

What made you consider studying a Foundation Course at the University of Westminster? 

Fatemeh: I have always been interested in architecture and design and wanted to pursue my studies within this area. I chose to study the Foundation Programme to expand and develop my skills in drawing and model making. I also wanted to learn and understand more about the different media that can be used in projects. 

Arek: I based my choice on Westminster’s strong links with the architecture profession. The lecturers all have experience working in architectural practices, and students often achieve high-level awards, including the RIBA President’s Medal, and London’s world-renowned buildings are only a short distance away.

Were you looking to achieve anything in particular by studying a Foundation Course? And do you think you will achieve this by completing your Foundation Course?

Fatemeh: I wanted to improve my drawing skills and understand more about the different model-making techniques. I feel that I have achieved this and learnt much more during my Foundation year. I have improved my critical and creative thinking skills when approaching projects and I am also more confident about putting together a portfolio and creatively laying out the pages.

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Arek: As an international student, who spent many years out of full-time education, I was looking to both refresh my knowledge on the subject of architecture and gain insight into good academic practice. I was able to achieve my goals whilst being encouraged to experiment and broaden my perspective, with new ways of thinking and working.

Do you feel studying a Foundation course has better prepared you to start studying for your degree at Westminster?

Fatemeh: Yes, for sure. I’m now much better prepared to start my first year of the Architecture BA course. I am familiar with academic styles and standards for essay writing and communication. The use of the Fabrication Lab has a significant role in studying architecture at Westminster. My Foundation year has taught me to make my designs in real life with model-making in the Fabrication Lab. I am familiar and confident with how to use the machines and the different techniques you can use to create a model and bring your designs to life.

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Arek: Yes, very much. There are many resources made available by the University e.g. a 24-hour library, free specialist software and the state-of-the-art Fabrication Lab. Independent study is also encouraged and well supported by the tutors.

Can you tell us about your favourite experience or highlight whilst studying your Foundation Course so far?

Fatemeh: One of the best experiences I have had during my Foundation year were the field trips. It was a great experience for me to discover London and understand much more of the city’s architecture whilst studying. 

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Arek: My favourite experience was Fresher’s Week. Going to university can be intimidating, but there is a lot of support made available to new students. There are many societies one can join, and many events organised by the Student’s Union, so I quickly felt comfortable.

A sense of community is fostered by the academic staff from the first day and a positive learning environment helps your academic and personal growth.

Would you recommend studying a Foundation Course at Westminster and why?

Fatemeh: I would recommend studying a Foundation year for new students. If you want to discover and explore more about studying, be familiar with academic standards and become more confident, the Foundation year is for you.

Arek: I absolutely would. All the modules are challenging yet accessible: there’s something for everyone regardless of their educational background.

Is there anything else you would like to tell us about your experience studying a Foundation Course at Westminster?

Fatemeh: Studying a Foundation year is a chance to preview and prepare for university life.

You can discover societies, facilities and a range of support. It was a great experience to study a Foundation year and find out more about my future course and career. 

Arek: The Fabrication Lab and the studios are arranged in such a way that students get exposed to a large number of projects and ideas from their peers. Having access to so many different opinions on design stimulates creativity and receptiveness.

My major project this year was to design a folly. The folly is to serve as a place to sit, think and/or socialise, as well as provide a sheltered space for small independent exhibitions. It will be free to use for students and located on our Cavendish Campus.

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To learn more read our five reasons to study the Architecture and Design Foundation pathway or hear from Julian Williams, Principal Lecturer and Course Leader, in our Introduction to Architecture and Design Foundation blog post.