Plans showing proposed building in Chester

Interview with Mark Bebbington, Senior Technician

Posted on 30/11/22

What do you enjoy most about your job?

The drawing is what I enjoy most but I also really enjoy meeting with and then building a relationship with a new client and just doing the best possible job I can for them.

How did you get into architecture?

I started working as a junior technician for a structural engineering company straight after school once I had completed my A levels. It was a great introduction to the world of work but there wasn’t really any scope for creativity. However, I liked the look of what the architects were doing! I worked with a firm of architects in Liverpool and then trained as a Building Control Inspector so I have an interesting combination of both drawing skills and expertise in building regulations, which is actually very helpful for my role now.

When the 2008 recession hit, I started working for myself and was then self-employed for around 10 years. That was a very interesting and enjoyable experience and gave me a good appreciation of what is involved in running a business. I’ve been working with NWD for two years now and enjoy being part of team once more.

How has the job changed?

It’s changed beyond recognition! Technology has transformed everything. When I left school, CAD was well-established but architects were still doing loads of hand drawing on actual drawing boards. Nowadays, software tools like Revit have revolutionised what we do. It’s really important that we stay on top of technological advances and we are constantly upgrading our skills to keep up with the rate of change.

Which past project stands out for you?

It’s hard to narrow it down but I’m really pleased with a recent project I’ve completed which was a huge extension to a local family home. Where it was previously a slightly dilapidated cottage, it’s now a beautiful family home, with a stunning gable and loads of glazing. I can see it from our local school playing field when I’m coaching football and it looks incredible.

What’s the biggest challenge you face at the moment?

Demand has been up since Covid, mainly as so many people have had not only the time and opportunity to think about how they could improve their homes but also because they want different things from them too, like good working from home spaces. The current planning delays are frustrating but I actually think the biggest challenge for us now is climate change and how to incorporate greener energy into designs, even for smaller projects, so it’s still cost effective for our clients.

Interview with Mark Bebbington, Senior Technician

What do you enjoy most about your job?

How did you get into architecture?

How has the job changed?

Which past project stands out for you?

What’s the biggest challenge you face at the moment?

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