Architecture

I knew that I want to become an architect from very early age as my father is also an artist/architect and drawing took big part of my time. Before coming to Lithuania I was studying architecture in Tbilisi State Academy of Arts. Coming to technical university I was expecting more intense study of technical subjects. I ended up gaining great knowledge in urban planning. Studies in KTU also helped me to develop my ways of thinking and skills needed to continue working in the field of architecture and urban planning. I started doing my internship in JDWA - Johan de Wachter Architects office, while also working on my thesis. The office is practicing architecture and urban planning, while exploring collaborative design with future users, so I can easily adapt skills gained in KTU and learn new things every day.

A few years ago I graduated from Bachelor degree studies of Architecture at KTU. Studies at KTU have taught me to learn and individually search for information, which is very helpful while working as an architect in Japan. With University's assistance I found a placement for a year at Tokyo city, Japan. It determined my further architect career in this country. It has been four years of professional work. I am very grateful to KTU studies and lecturers, who curated theses Bachelor studies; not only they provided professional assistance, but always helped at the time of personal difficulties. I have become and still remain friends with a few lecturers. It is sufficiently easy to adapt the knowledge acquired during studies in practice. Part of the taught subjects was based on global practices, which was helpful in work with such famous architects as Kuma Kengo and Toyo Ito. Lectures of Landscape Architecture and Territorial Planning helped while performing huge research during the project of development of a new image of Salt Lake City. My preparation for this project included research, which I partially learned in these lectures. Moreover, if I had questions during my professional work, I could always apply to my former lecturers, who were always glad to help.

I have represented thesis defence commission of Architecture Bachelor degree studies for five years, therefore I have a great opportunity to observe the level of students' preparation. Each year this level increases with improvements of study programme. Quite a few graduates worked at our office. We were very satisfied with their knowledge, approach to profession and creativity. I am sure we will not be disappointed in the future.

The architectural profession is not only a way of life, but also a discipline that requires a broad and open view of the world around us, knowledge of technology, design and other disciplines, the ability to solve problems creatively and to present one's ideas clearly and argumentatively. These qualities are just a few of many important for a future architect. From the very first year, KTU integrated architecture study programme encourages students to be curious and learn from past successes and failures, to think critically, to defend their ideas with arguments and, most importantly, to work in a team. These principles are the basis on which this study program has been created.