When looking at universities, Harsha’s focus was research, strong programmes and faculty expertise. During their studies, Harsha was able to develop their research skills and focus primarily on their key interests which still influences their architecture research today. Since leaving ECA, Harsha has been able to continue their student project ‘Decolonise Architecture’ which publishes articles and provides workshops on decoloniality in the architecture world. 

Why ECA? 

ECA is one of the few universities in the UK that encourage dual streams of design studio for the Master of Architecture programme. In addition to the industry standard year-long studio approach, the Edinburgh School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture offers a two-year long, integrated studio programme that encourages a single design thesis to be developed over the duration of the course. As a student with a keen interest in research, this style of architectural education intrigued me. The tutor body at ESALA are established academics with a range of expertise, allowing for a true depth and variety of design proposals to flourish. The city of Edinburgh was the second reason: steeped in history and with a beautiful architectural palette, I was excited to be studying in a city that was a stage of inspiration itself! 

Tell us about your time at ECA 

As a student on the integrated Master’s programme, I was able to spend my entire degree focusing on one primary avenue of design research. This was supplemented by short projects within the studio brief that enabled collaboration with my fellow students. The group projects varied in briefs and design flexibilities and encouraged a holistic approach to our otherwise independent theses that were carried out concurrently.  

Through the Architecture Society, we are regularly encouraged to attend guest lectures and presentations across the academic year that help create a network of professionals to learn from and be inspired by. I was lucky to be involved in the architecture society as its treasurer in my final year, co-ordinating a rehaul of the society, as well as organising a range of social events that promoted inter-year connections across the programme.  

ESALA, in addition, hosts multiple fascinating lecture series throughout the year with esteemed academics visiting the school. Thesis are split between frictions, a theory-focused lecture series, as well as the landscape seminar series, architectural history series, as well as the PHD conference. These have encouraged a range of subjects to be introduced to the school and have become an ideal platform to connect with scholars through.  

ESALA also has their own climate action network, named ECAN (ESALA Climate Action Now). I was lucky to be involved with the group, first as a volunteer, and in my final year as a co-convenor alongside tutors. The blended format of the ECAN working group encourages a shared platform for students to work with staff, reducing hierarchy in the work produced.  

ESALA has a prestigious line-up of academics within the school that have encouraged drop-in sessions and advice whenever needed. Their work and experiences have encouraged new methods of practice and have nurtured my interest in architectural research as I further my career. 

Tell us about your experiences since graduating 

Edinburgh has become one of the toughest cities to say goodbye to – having made an incredible group of friends, met a fascinating cohort of colleagues, and being inculcated into the Scottish culture has made Edinburgh feel like a home for the past two years.  

Upon graduating I spent a few months travelling (necessary after two academically stimulating years!) and have now moved to a new city. Throughout my time at Edinburgh, I was able to truly develop my fledgling interest in policy, research, and architectural academia. Since graduating I have been able to begin my career in this, owing from the volunteering and mentorship offered during my time at the university. 

Before I started my degree, I had been working with a few peers on a student group of our own – originating during the pandemic, our group remained theoretical in its practice and application. During my degree I have balanced my commitment to my group, now officially incorporated as a not-for-profit named Decolonise Architecture. Our efforts have made DA an international organisation, and upon graduating we have been lucky to have our work published through a range of magazines and academic journals. I have also focused on delivering training workshops and am a frequent guest lecturer at a range of universities and professional practices in the UK.  

I genuinely believe my time at ESALA was one of the most rewarding stages of my life. The freedom of thought and variety of academic experiences offered to students can seem overwhelming at first but in fact encourage a wider network of professional practice. Since leaving the school, my biggest achievement has been my research work, and I am lucky to have remained in close contact with my tutors and fellow academics at the school, whose continued advice and motivation have helped nurture my skills and ambition. 

Alumni wisdom 

My advice to in incoming students would be to remain firm and ambitious in your beliefs. Being at the school offers an unparalleled depth of academic exploration and while it may feel easy to get overwhelmed, remember that these will only help shape your own thinking, rather than replace it. Do go out of your way to get involved in the events and lectures occurring across the school – you never know who you may meet and what you’ll learn! ESALA is a friendly, welcoming place – your cohort will become some of your closest friends and will support you through your academic journey too.  

My advice to everyone graduating: the traditional route to architectural qualification is just that – traditional. Don’t be afraid to do something different with your career. We are living in a time of unprecedented change and adaptability will soon become a necessary skill. Keep up your involvement in work outside of architecture. Try to involve yourself with different modes of architectural practice, through joining action networks, or through alternative modes of technical practice, such as Passive House design. Remaining within the traditional mode of qualification may feel comforting, but championing change and advancement within the profession will feel even better.