"Stay open, stay interested" - James Spencer, Glenn Howell Architects

Filmed by Bespoke Careers at MIPIM 2017, James Spencer from Glenn Howell Architects gives us the inside scoop on the Glenn Howell design ethos, their office culture and typical members of staff. He also tells us how they prefer to receive portfolios, what questions applicants should ask at interview and his advice for those just starting their careers in architecture.

What is your design ethos?

We’ve described it as elegant, appropriate and lean. 

How would you describe your office culture?

We have a great culture that focusses on the people we work with. We’re fortunate to have some fantastic clients and some high-profile projects. We stay passionate about design all the way through to the project. 

What makes someone a Glenn Howell person?

It would obviously be an interest in design, but also a drive and enthusiasm that makes people fit. 

How do you prefer to receive portfolios? 

It’s a bit of both these days since we work in a mix of medias. It’s important if you can send us something digitally in advance as it’s useful and shows your ability to put things together. At the end of the day, when you come to an interview it’s important to have a lovely well-presented portfolio. 

What questions would you advise people to ask?

For me, it’s about asking appropriate questions for the practice, so make sure you’ve done your homework as it comes across quite well when someone knows the firm. Also, make sure that you’re getting across in your questions that you’re taking an interest in what makes the practice tick by keeping that discussion open and interesting. 

What advice would you give to anyone starting out in architecture?

The most important word is ‘open’. Stay open to ideas, open to working with other people and open to learning. It’s a massive subject so long as you stay interested and staying interested and open to ideas is important.