EMPOWERING WOMEN IN ARCHITECTURE:
Insights from Bianca Carosini and Silke Bierbrauer
In honour of National Women’s Day on 9th August, we sat down with Bianca and Silke, two passionate Project Architects on the Bomax team. Bianca is from Cape Town, she completed her Masters in Architecture at Politecnico di Milano, Italy and Silke is from Namibia, completing her Masters at the UCT School of Architecture. We delve into their experiences, perspectives on their journey in architecture, and the impact of influential female architects that paved the way. Through their candid responses, we explore the inspiration behind their career choices, the challenges they faced, the joy they find in their work, and the valuable advice they have for young women aspiring to make their mark in this dynamic profession.
Finding Inspiration in Architecture
In this section, we learn about the early influences that ignited Bianca and Silke’s passion for architecture.
What inspired you to pursue a career in architecture?
B: I got quite an early start into the architectural world – I went to a great high school that offered Design as a subject, and although we looked at many different things in the design world, there was quite a significant focus on architecture. Not only did we study architectural theory and history, but we designed and drew up building plans quite early on. My first influence was the teacher of this subject – a woman whom we called ‘Sarge’ (Irma Sargeant) –one of the most supportive and inspiring educators I had at school. At the time, there were not a lot of female architects that we learned about, but I always remember learning about Zaha Hadid. She was such a powerful force in the architectural world. I was convinced I would channel that power and become the next Zaha.
“I always remember learning about Zaha Hadid. She was such a powerful force in the architectural world. I was convinced I would channel that power and become the next Zaha.” – Bianca
S: I wouldn’t say a specific moment, or experience pushed me to pursue architecture. I have always been intrinsically creative, so very early on, I started looking at creative careers. As I got older, I became fascinated with how things are built. This fascination is what pushed me to follow a career in architecture.
Overcoming Challenges in a Vital yet Undervalued Profession
“What are some of the most significant challenges you’ve faced as an architect?”
B: Any architect knows it can be a challenging career as it can at times remain a significantly undervalued profession, but what we do is incredibly important and affects the lives of many people for literal decades – it’s essential always to remember that what we do makes a difference.
Despite the obstacles, Bianca remains committed to making a difference through her architectural designs and inspiring change in the perception of architecture.
Fulfilment in Architecture
Silke sheds light on the joys and fulfilment that derive from an architect’s work:
What do you enjoy most about being an architect?
S: Seeing your designs come to life as buildings take shape is always incredible, but the most gratifying feeling comes from witnessing how your design spaces positively impact people’s lives.
“Seeing your designs come to life as buildings take shape is always incredible, but the most gratifying feeling comes from witnessing how your design spaces positively impact people’s lives.” – Silke
What special skills have you developed lately?
S: The skill I am currently developing the most is in the Concept and Design Development Stages. Making use of advanced 3d modelling to create beautiful imagery of our designs brings the building to life for our clients before construction. We then develop the same model for construction, effectively providing ongoing live updates of the design through to completion.
B: Through most of my career I have primarily worked in the design realm, but I have loved developing my skills in the more technical side of architecture. I am currently designing for virtual reality presentations which is both technical and artistic. The constant technological advancements in the world of architecture means our work becomes more interesting each day.
Sage Advice for Aspiring Women Architects
What advice would you give young girls aspiring to become architects?
B: Even though the architecture and construction world still feel male-dominated, I would advise all young women not to shy away from any male-dominated career field; we are all equally capable. Architecture is a highly challenging and competitive career, but you will find your niche if you are passionate about architecture. An architectural education also offers a broad set of skills that can be applied in diverse ways, not necessarily having to end in a career as an Architect.
S: You need to have people’s skills. The construction industry has a lot of ‘big’ personalities, and dealing with these properly will probably be beneficial in every aspect of your life. Be a sponge and absorb everything. You may not enjoy what you are doing immediately but take in the knowledge you gain. Don’t disregard the small tasks that you are given; everything helps.
Bianca and Silke’s candid insights provide a glimpse into the journey of female architects, reflecting the influence of pioneering women and the unwavering dedication that propels them forward. As we celebrate National Women’s Day, Bomax shines the spotlight on Bianca and Silke’s talent, dedication, and growth in this creative profession!
View the projects below to get some insight into their amazing work for Bomax Architects. Bianca and Silke are currently key players in the design teams for projects Villa Vera and Uminoya, respectively.