Susan Le Good

FIRST PROJECT A small new-build house at Avanti Architects

DESIGN ETHOS Pragmatically analysing a brief and context, then developing a creative response which is tested iteratively

SECTORS YOU WORK IN Schools, residential, mixed-use

ADVICE TO ASPIRING FEMALE ARCHITECTS You need to be inspired and passionate about architecture, because it can be relentless and hard. You have to keep working at it, always understand the detail of it and if you don’t know it, then ask

WHY WOMEN LEAVE I think some women may leave architectural study and practice because they just decide it is not for them – I think this applies to men too. From my observation, I think the main reason that women leave architecture, at least temporarily, is because of decisions and challenges related to childcare

WHAT WOULD MAKE THEM STAY? Greater flexibility in working hours

HOW TO MAKE IT WORK The architectural profession has to involve both women and men working together well. I believe this is key to creating buildings since they are always a product of collaboration and teamwork. Therefore, apart from being good at what you do, continual communication, talking and dialogue is vital

ON SEXISM I am lucky to work in a practice that has a high percentage of women (at least 45 per cent) and many of those in senior roles. Attitudes are changing but there is still an element of ‘old school’ behaviour

BEST DEFENCE AGAINST SEXISM Be good at what you do and if there is an issue, have the confidence to turn to someone – they are more than likely to help. Sexism is a form of bullying and bullying also happens to men

BEST ADVICE EVER RECEIVED My aunt told me not to work for the same practice as your spouse. I did marry an architect and I think she was right – my husband thinks so too

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