Shaping Heritage: A Year in Review with Buttress' Part I Architectural Assistant, Ed Kamal

After graduating from the University of Liverpool, Ed joined Buttress in summer 2023 as a Part I architectural assistant on the heritage team.

What does being a Part I architectural assistant mean? 

Being a Part I Architectural Assistant at Buttress means actively engaging in a dynamic learning process and collaborating with architects, technologists, and heritage consultants.  The scale and range of projects at Buttress offer invaluable exposure, from historic conservation to contemporary design. 

Working on projects like Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, Hough Hall Farm, and Eccles Town Hall has helped me refine my skills and shape my identity as a designer.

One of the highlights of my time so far has been submitting my first planning application, which felt, at the time, a key milestone in my development.

What has been the most valuable lesson you’ve learned during your time at our studio?

The most valuable lesson I’ve learnt is the importance of designing spaces that truly serve the people who use them, especially in heritage settings where the community often acts as the custodian of the building’s legacy.  Projects like Tony’s Ballroom in Blackburn and Eccles Town Hall have revealed how deeply significant even unlisted buildings can be to local communities, with stories that are profoundly ingrained in families, weddings, christenings, birthdays etc.  

My time at Buttress has highlighted the balance between preserving these spaces and adapting them to meet modern needs whilst still ensuring they remain accessible and inclusive for everyone.

How do you feel your skills and knowledge have developed over the past year, and what specific areas do you want to focus on improving as you continue your studies?

Working in a studio environment has significantly deepened my understanding of how an architectural practice operates and has encouraged me to hone my skills in independent research. From the CPD sessions on topics such as accessible design to conducting detailed research on the history of Cheshire farmsteads for a feasibility study, I’ve gained valuable insight.

I’ve also grown more confident in everyday tasks like writing emails and communicating with clients and project partners while developing a stronger commercial awareness. At university, design often happens without a full grasp of the commercial realities, and this has been a key area of growth during my time at Buttress.

Where do you see yourself in five to ten years within the field of architecture, and what types of projects or roles are you most excited about pursuing?

In five to ten years, I see myself as a fully qualified architect, engaged in projects that focus on art, culture, and heritage, while expanding my understanding of how these elements are celebrated across different cultures beyond the UK.

I’m eager to explore how architecture can reflect and honour the richness of diverse cultural identities, creating spaces that are meaningful and inclusive.

Additionally, I hope to contribute to architectural education by tutoring design students alongside my project work—an ambition sparked by my experiences supporting the RIBA student mentorship programme and assisting with Buttress’ work experience scheme.

What advice would you give to future young people joining our practice to help them make the most of their experience here?

Buttress is a very social practice, with plenty of opportunities to get involved and connect with colleagues across different teams. I’ve attended a variety of networking and social events, from an after-work jewellery making session to attending Material Source’s networking running group and an Urbanistas North West event.

The annual staff trip, which is often held abroad, is well-known for its lively social atmosphere, but we never miss the chance to explore and appreciate the local architecture.

I’d highly recommend making the most of the diverse and welcoming community at Buttress. Don’t hesitate to ask questions and take advantage of the wealth of experience and knowledge around you.

Ed will be studying for his part II MArch at the University of Sheffield. We wish him well.