Breaking Into Architecture: Jordan Curran (Interview)

Breaking Into Architecture is a short series by Chaim Lieder, a recent job-seeking Bachelor’s graduate based in Melbourne. Chaim launched this initiative to re-frame his own challenges into an opportunity to help others in the same position.

Interview 5: Jordan Curran

As the leader of Clarke Hopkins Clarke’s mixed-use and retail team, for the last decade, Jordan has contributed to the visioning, master planning and delivery of complex mixed-use precincts, shopping centres, town centres and new smart cities, both across Australia and internationally. Sydney born and bred, Jordan has recently returned to his roots, establishing the practice’s new Sydney office.

What attracted you to a career in Architecture?

From a young age, I had a keen interest in using my imagination to create little structures. I originally wanted to become a builder and I remember walking past a building site one day with a rendering out the front and thinking to myself how cool it was that somebody had created that. In high school, my focus shifted away from construction and more towards the arts, eventually leading me to architecture.

What is the most rewarding part of a career in Architecture?

I think for architects, it’s the creative problem-solving, the value you create for your clients by drawing on a broad range of knowledge areas, and the enriched environments you create in the process - that’s the most rewarding.

How did you land your first job in the Architecture industry?

I landed my first job at SJB during my bachelor’s degree. I loved making models, and I suppose they took a liking to that. After I completed my bachelor’s I worked in Ireland for two years, before returning to Australia to pursue my master’s. When I was re-applying for jobs, I wanted to walk in to meet people and place a physical copy of my CV on their desk. Clarke Hopkins Clarke appreciated that initiative and offered me a position.

What advice would you give students & fresh graduates who are struggling to land a job?

Get out of your comfort zone: I think the challenge for students is pushing themselves out of their comfort zone and meeting people in the industry. Networking is very important in Architecture, and as architects, we appreciate it when people show initiative. LinkedIn has made it easier than ever to reach out and connect with people in the industry.

Broaden your knowledge: The more you know, the more control you have over your designs. As architects, when creating projects, we want to be the conduit between making decisions and bringing people together. The industry is so diverse, and therefore understanding things like planning, development, finance, government and industry trends will really help you in your pursuit of success.

Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give your student/young graduate self?

Learn about goal setting, constantly push yourself out of your comfort zone, acquire as much knowledge as possible and really understand the industry you’re working in.

For more Job Seeking advice, please check out our free Job Seeker Workbook.