10 Years as an Architectural Technician: 10 Lessons Learned

2025 is a significant year for Nathan McNaull (NDAT),an Intermediate Architectural Technician in Chow:Hill’s Tāmaki Makaurau studio. It’s his 10^th anniversary with our practice. In celebration of our people and their service to our team, clients, projects, and company culture, we asked Nathan to share some of his learnings from the past decade. 

Here’s what Nathan said:

Ten years at Chow:Hill Architects has taught me everything I know, from fresh-faced graduate to a seasoned Architectural Technician. Here are 10 things I have learned along the way:

1. Mental Health Matters    

Architecture is about creating structures that last, but that starts with us. Looking after your mental wellbeing is crucial. Burnout is real, so remember to recharge and prioritise your health.

2. The Beauty is in the Details

For me, I’ve learned that details are what define a building's quality and character. It's those small touches that elevate a project from good to exceptional.

3. CAD Wizardry‍

Practice makes perfect. So, when CAD finally becomes second nature, the mind can focus on the bigger picture and the technical process.

4. Failing Forward

Mistakes happen. It's not always fun, but I've learned to embrace them as learning opportunities. The key is to learn, forgive yourself, and move forward smarter.

5. Lean on Your Team‍

Five minutes of asking for help can save you an hour of frustration. Don't be afraid to reach out to your colleagues and leaders - building connections is just as important as building buildings.

6. The 4Ds of Detailing    

Deflection, drainage, drying, and durability. These are the cornerstones of weathertight detailing, especially when dealing with complex junctions. A crucial lesson for any architectural technician!

7. Keeping the Plates Spinning

Juggling multiple projects and leaders requires strong prioritisation skills. I've learned it’s all about collaboration and clear communication. Identify what can be delayed, and to know when things absolutely need to get done.

8. 3D Detailing & Buildability

Everything we design has a physical form. I've learned to think about how things are built, from sequencing multi-part custom flashings to ensuring our designs are actually achievable on site. It's about understanding the construction process and working hand-in-hand with the contractors who bring our vision to life.

9. Forward Thinking‍

Understanding that a single change can ripple through an entire set of documents is essential. It's about anticipating the consequences of your decisions and minimising potential issues down the line.

10. Don’t rely on an architecture career as your only creative outlet‍

While it's a creative job filled with problem-solving and design, long stretches of shop drawings, schedules, and QA can sometimes leave the creative mind unfulfilled. Continue to explore other passions to keep that spark alive!