"The Thinking Behind Your Work" - Andrea Lamberti, Rafael Vinoly Architects

What would you like to see in a portfolio?

Emphasise your architectural experience, but if you also have non-architectural experience don’t leave it out. Show your interest and commitment at your interview.

Most of the time at an in-person interview, it’s still a little bit more convenient to look at a hard copy portfolio, however having an emailable-sized document that could accompany your resume in advance of the interview is extraordinarily helpful. 

How detailed should your portfolio project be?

If you have experience in all phases of a project, be sure not to omit that from your presentation. Likewise, if you have experience in construction documents or administration, have some evidence of that with you, bring a CD or bring a photograph of the job site. Don’t feel that your portfolio should only have the renderings and beautifully-prepared floor plans and sections.

What questions should a person avoid asking during an interview?

It’s very hard for us in an interview to commit to which project someone will be assigned, so a person can ask but we wouldn’t be able to give a final answer.

What advice would you give to someone starting out right now?

I would advise someone to look deep within themselves, know what they’re really interested in and to seek those experiences. Don’t just go with the crowd, go with what is really motivating you and look to those with experience who you can form a strong bond with and who can guide you, not only in a mentor or champion type way but also on a purely professional day to day basis.