Harriet Key, who graduated with a First from Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) in Chelmsford in July, has won a prestigious national award for a project she completed as part of her course.
Harriet’s work was celebrated at the annual AT Awards, which are organised by the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists (CIAT), and she received her award from TV presenter Matt Allwright and CIAT President Eddie Weir.
The 24-year-old from Attleborough in Norfolk, who works as an Architectural Technologist at LSI Architects in Norwich, received the Student Award for Excellence in Architectural Technology at the ceremony at Christ Church Spitalfields in London.
And fellow graduate Rebecca Wakely, from Godmanchester, made it a double success for Anglia Ruskin University at the awards, after her project received the category’s Highly Commended prize. Harriet and Rebecca both studied at ARU’s School of Architecture and Planning in Chelmsford.
Harriet won the award for her project Cranwood Residence, a design for a zero carbon, multi-generational housing development in Muswell Hill, north London, with the judges praising her “great eye for detailing” and “advanced understanding of the design process”.
The judges said: “Harriet’s project exemplifies technical excellence and sustainable innovation in architectural design. She impressed with her concise yet comprehensive approach to her project with the rich mix of styles that really set this submission apart and captured the attention of all judges.
“This is a truly robust project, presented with a professional layout and excellent use of technical details, annotation diagrams and 3D visualisations. This project stands out for its clarity, depth and thoughtful execution, making it a deserving winner.”
Harriet said: “Studying part-time at Anglia Ruskin University while working in an architectural practice has been an incredible journey. The support from the lecturers has been outstanding, especially from Richard Longstaff, who dedicates countless hours to supporting each student’s growth. Both Richard and Graham Terry are genuinely invested in helping students reach their full potential, creating a learning environment that is both challenging and incredibly encouraging.
“Balancing academic work with hands-on industry experience has deepened my understanding of architectural technology and enhanced my practical skills. Winning the CIAT Student Award for my project was a complete surprise, and I was overjoyed to achieve such recognition. This award has further inspired me to help shape the future of innovative, sustainable architecture and has reinforced my commitment to becoming a Chartered Architectural Technologist.”
Mark Tree, Interim Head of Engineering and the Built Environment at ARU, said: “We are thrilled to see our talented students and graduates recognised on the national stage, and Harriet and Becky should both be very proud of their success.
“While at ARU, Harriet was named the Outstanding Graduating Student on her course and also won the the Award for Outstanding Performance, and this latest recognition from the Chartered Institute of Architectural Technologists suggests that Harriet has a very promising career ahead of her.”
