Living more sustainably through architecture
Architecture graduate Rebecca has a passion for designing spaces that enhance our well-being and make our lives better.
Rebecca sees herself as both logical and creative, which is why she was drawn to study Architecture at Cardiff University, for this discipline requires a blend of both attributes.
With a passion for designing spaces that enhance our well-being and make our lives better, Rebecca loves that architecture is so entrenched in how we live – where we work, where we relax and where we interact.
Heading on a gap year to travel, Rebecca plans to see the world before heading back to her studies with a placement year at an architecture firm. She hopes to pair her recent degree knowledge with practical experience to use architecture to help us live more sustainably, creating spaces which meet our needs but also respect and preserve the environment.
Collaboration is such an important part of architecture, and is something Rebecca was delighted to explore throughout her time at Cardiff – learning the value of working together and how individual designs can come together and make something cohesive and vibrant. Her time here helped her to step out of her comfort zone and to go out and do more, finding the confidence to try different things, to accept not being the best at everything and to discover what she truly enjoys.
“It’s about trying different things, finding where you fit in, and discovering what you truly enjoy.”
Rebecca has always seen herself as a blend of logical and creative, and architecture perfectly combines both.
Together, we can live more sustainably through architecture
Why did you decide to study architecture?
The idea of creating something tangible — something you can see and touch — really appealed to me. Architecture is deeply connected to how we live: where we work, where we relax, where we interact. Through restorative and adaptive architecture, we can create environments that are not only functional but also enhance our well-being. It’s about designing spaces that make life better for everyone.
Can you tell us about one of your highlights?
This year, I worked on a community-based project in Treherbert, a Welsh town. We were in small groups, designing different aspects of the High Street, like visitor centres, cafes, and leisure centres —with the goal of revitalising the area. It was amazing to see our individual designs come together to create a cohesive, vibrant community space. This experience really reinforced how important collaboration is in architecture.
What are your plans after completing your degree?
I’m planning to take a gap year to travel, starting with a ski season and then exploring Japan and other parts of Asia. After that, I’ll dive back into my studies with a placement year, gaining hands-on experience with a real architecture firm. Eventually, I plan to continue my Master’s to broaden my horizons.
What are your hopes for the future?
I believe together we can live more sustainably. Through architecture, we have the power to create spaces that not only meet our needs but also respect and preserve our environment. It’s about designing with purpose and considering the long-term impact of our buildings on both people and the planet.
“Through architecture, we have the power to create spaces that not only meet our needs but also respect and preserve our environment.”
Read more stories like Rebecca’s
Our graduates are united in their vision for the future. By harnessing our skills, knowledge and diverse perspectives, we can create positive change, drive innovation, and build a better world for generations to come. Our class of 2024 tell us their stories.
“I’ve learnt through personal experience the impact that a single teacher can have on a person’s life.”
Lindi believes that together we can create a better education system for young people, and make a real difference in their lives.