In our final episode of 2025, we take a step back to reflect on the year, the conversations we’ve had, and how Drawing the Line has grown. We revisit key moments from past episodes, what we’ve learned along the way, and how the podcast has shaped our thinking about architectural education and practice.

We also look ahead to 2026, sharing our ambitions for the podcast and why creating honest, accessible conversations within the profession feels increasingly important.

Alongside this, we unpack the ongoing RIBA vs ARB debate, breaking down who does what, what each organisation offers, and the real costs of registration and membership. We explore why the system feels confusing for many students and early-career architects, and how understanding the difference between regulation and professional support can help you make more informed choices.

Whether you’re studying, working in practice, or recently qualified, this episode is about reflection, clarity, and looking forward.

Let us know your thoughts in the comments or on our social channels.

In this episode, we’re joined by Chris Williamson, RIBA President and co-founder of Weston Williamson + Partners. We talk about everything from the future of lifelong learning to fair pay, design competitions, and how architects can build more meaningful careers. Chris reflects on his four decades in practice, the mentors who shaped him, and his hopes for a more equitable, connected, and confident profession.

Connect with us via Instagram & LinkedIn, we'd love to know your thoughts on opinions on the topics discussed:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drawingthelinepod/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/drawingtheline-podcast/

In this episode of Drawing the Line, we bring together a university tutor and a student for an honest conversation about life in architectural education. We explore what tutors are really looking for in their students, how to navigate the challenges of undergraduate study, and why balancing digital skills with hand drawing and design thinking is so important. We also look ahead to the upcoming changes in the architecture curriculum, discussing how these shifts could shape the experiences of current students and the opportunities for future graduates entering practice.

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Daz and aB continue their reflections on their journeys through architecture practices of all sizes. From a tight-knit 5-person studio to a 300-strong national firm. They dive into the realities of freelancing, part-time, and full-time work at different scales, unpacking how culture, responsibility, and opportunities shift with size. Whether you're job-hunting or just curious about how practice structure shapes day-to-day life, this honest conversation lays out the pros and cons with honesty and insight from lived experiences.

⁠IG: Drawing the Line⁠

⁠AJ100 Index⁠

⁠RIBA Salary Guide

In this episode, Daz and aB reflect on their journeys through architecture practices of all sizes. From a tight-knit 5-person studio to a 300-strong national firm. They unpack what it’s really like to work at different scales, sharing the benefits, challenges, and subtle shifts in culture and responsibility that come with each. Whether you're deciding where to apply or just curious about how practice size shapes experience, this conversation breaks down the pros and cons with honesty and insight.

IG: Drawing the Line

AJ100 Index

RIBA Salary Guide

In this episode, the focus turns to the structure of the University of Cambridge Level 7 Degree Apprenticeship. The conversation explores how the course compares to the traditional masters route, while offering a breakdown of each module and its practical purpose.

The discussion highlights how the programme blends academic study with real-world experience, using industry-aligned modules to upskill students while they work in practice. For anyone curious about the apprenticeship path or how it prepares students for the profession, this episode provides clear and honest insight.

Some of the sustainable design resources discussed in this episode:

The Construction Material Pyramid

FCBS Carbon

Embodied Carbon ICE Database

Edward de Bono - Six Thinking Hats

This episode dives into a personal journey into architecture school. The conversation covers the realities behind academic results, personal challenges, and the hurdles faced along the way. It is an honest look at the highs and lows of the process, from early doubts to developing confidence and building meaningful connections.

There is reflection on the importance of resilience, learning to navigate setbacks and the role that confidence and networking play in both academic and professional growth. For anyone considering architecture or currently on the journey, this episode offers relatable insight and genuine encouragement.

Daz & aB sit down for a conversation about the realities of becoming an architect. From the long road to qualification to the challenges of breaking into the industry. In this first episode, Is Architecture Worth It?, we explore the financial and personal sacrifices, early career salary expectations, and whether the risk vs. reward truly adds up in 2025.

We break down the time and commitment required to qualify, comparing the traditional university path with the apprenticeship route, and weigh the pros and cons of choosing architecture as a profession. With Daz bringing over a decade of experience in the industry and aB navigating his Part 2 through an apprenticeship, we offer honest insights from both sides of the journey.

Got thoughts or questions? Drop us a message on Instagram, we’d love to hear from you!

@drawingthelinepod