Wark calls for more support for young architects

PATRON: Newsnight presenter will help judge schools contest.

The Newsnight presenter said more help was needed for the next generation of architects as it is getting harder to become established in the industry.

She said: "There is always more that can be done for young architects. I don't think we do enough in Scotland. It is hard to get a toehold in what is a competitive, international profession. We need to be providing opportunities for young architects at home as well as supporting them abroad. I'd love to see more done."

Her comments come at the launch of a competition run by the cancer charity Maggie's Centres to give school pupils the chance to win work experience at an architecture firm.

Wark, a patron of the charity, will participate in judging the competition, set up with Architecture and Design Scotland and now in its third year.

Maggie's, known for its visually striking centres designed to offer comfort and support for cancer patients and their families, has opened its competition to Standard Grade and Higher pupils.

Aimed at inspiring a new generation of architects, the challenge will be scrutinised by architect Richard Murphy and the overall winner will be offered a week's work experience with his firm.

Finalists will have their work displayed next spring at an exhibition in Glasgow's architecture centre, The Lighthouse. Wark said she thought architects could help breathe fresh life into city centres.

"I don't think it's about preserving buildings so much as it's about giving them new life," she said. "I would like to see more old buildings turned into properties and see more people living right in the heart of the city, giving it a night-time vibrancy, like in Paris"

Maggie's arts and culture co-ordinator Kathryn Lamont said: "It is a great opportunity for Standard Grade and Higher pupils to get a taste of what it is like to be an architect.

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Wark calls for more support for young architects