Meet the Team: Elliot Tiney

Can you tell us a little about yourself and what inspired you to pursue a career in architecture? 

I graduated from Nottingham Trent University in July 2024. Earlier that year, in April, I had the incredible opportunity to undertake a two-week internship at CPMG. This experience opened the door for me to begin my architectural career here immediately after graduation. Throughout school, I was always drawn to design and technology-based subjects. I knew I wanted a hands-on profession where I could channel my broader interests, and architecture ticked all the boxes. It’s a career I could see myself enjoying long-term.

Congratulations on your RIBA commendation! Could you share more about the project that earned you this recognition? 

Thank you! My project focused on creating a higher education facility in the heart of Nottingham on the Broadmarsh site - a location many will recognise. The concept revolved around "attachment" and explored how architecture can bridge past and present communities while educating future generations on sustainability. The design highlights traditional carpentry enhanced by biomaterials, such as Mycelium insulation panels, to promote sustainable practices and help meet net-zero carbon targets. The facility incorporates a closed-loop system where students grow biomaterials on-site for use in carpentry and construction, with renewable materials like timber playing a key role. It was an incredible opportunity to showcase how architecture can educate, innovate and inspire.

(You can read more about Elliot's RIBA award commendation here)

3. What have you enjoyed most about your placement at CPMG so far? 

I’ve loved getting to learn new things every day and gaining a deeper understanding of the industry. The team at CPMG has been so welcoming, and I’ve enjoyed getting to know everyone here. One of the most exciting parts of my placement has been working on a variety of projects across different sectors, which has allowed me to develop my skills in different software tools. I’ve also had the chance to experience various RIBA work stages, which has provided me with a well-rounded understanding of design stages. On top of that, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed the social events organised by the team, as they’ve been a great way to build relationships outside of work.

4. What challenges have you faced during your placement, and how have they helped you grow as an aspiring architect? 

One of the biggest challenges has been learning new software, particularly Revit. As an architect, communicating design ideas effectively is crucial, so mastering industry-standard tools is vital. I’ve also found it challenging to grasp and remember key terminology when starting out. With support from the team, I’ve gradually built my understanding, which has been essential for advancing my skills and confidence.

5. Sustainability played a key role in your award-winning project. How do you see sustainable innovation shaping the future of architecture? 

Sustainability will undoubtedly drive future architectural innovation. I foresee more efficient and sustainable technologies being integrated into buildings to reduce carbon footprints, with AI potentially playing a role in managing and minimising embodied carbon levels. I believe there will be significant advancements in the materials we use, making them more cost-effective so that sustainability targets can be met without requiring inflated budgets. Personally, I hope to see more biophilic architecture where building users can engage directly with sustainability in meaningful and hands-on ways.

6. Have there been any moments during your placement where you’ve learned something surprising or game-changing? 

Absolutely - every day has been a learning experience! As this is my first year in the industry, everything I’m absorbing is invaluable. Whether it’s mastering tools in Revit to improve my workflow or understanding how we collaborate with consultants, every moment has been game-changing for my professional development. Even small things, like streamlining workflows or grasping the bigger picture of a project, have been instrumental in shaping my learning experience.

7. What advice would you give to students looking to follow in your footsteps?

 My advice would be to pursue what genuinely interests you and incorporate it into your designs. It’s important to stay informed about industry trends and prepare for the changes architecture is undergoing. I’d also recommend broadening your software knowledge. Learning the basics of multiple tools is far more valuable than mastering just one early on. Finally, don’t hesitate to ask questions. If you don’t understand something, it’s always better to ask than to risk wasting time.

8. What are your aspirations once you complete your studies and continue your architectural journey? 

I want to advocate for sustainable yet affordable architecture. Many modern buildings are expensive without necessarily benefiting everyday users. I hope to create meaningful designs that address societal challenges effectively. While I’m not yet sure where my journey will take me, my ultimate goal is to contribute to purposeful architecture that serves the needs of our future.