How award winning young architect is paving the way for peers 

Kariuki Kihenjo graduated with a first-class degree in architecture and emerged best student award winner of the AAK Duracoat Awards of Excellence in Architecture 2022. He talks of his journey to success 

Why were there very few contestants entering the student category in the just ended Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK) 2022 annual awards?

There is lack of strong interaction between the Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK) and architecture schools in the country. The association should improve on the platforms it uses to create awareness to students regarding design competitions, workshops and other architecture training seminars.

Tell us about your award

Submissions in this category were conceptual projects from students currently enrolled in a university offering architecture in Kenya. The projects had to showcase innovative use of design principles, be sustainable and have value addition to a specific site context. I won the best student project category for the Proposed Trans Nzoia County Assembly.

What drives your interest in this field?

Like many young people today, I am more interested in architecture because it involves a great deal of artistic skill and creative energy. I love architecture, because it has a lot to do with artistic forms, designs and patterns. I prefer work, which allows for self-expression.

When did your passion for this career begin?

I had a passion for mathematics and sciences in secondary school. Then I joined the Technical University of Kenya (TUK) for a six-year course in architecture. I struggled in my first two years because of the technicalities of the course, but what came in handy to avoid switching courses or dropping out was my ‘go-getter’ mentality and giving up was not an option. 

What is your judgement on young people preference for artistic skills is based on?

My judgement is based on the introduction of the Competency Based Curriculum in primary schools, which encourages work activities that have to do with coming up with own ideas and critical thinking.

How many of you were admitted for the course?

There were 56 of us admitted by the Joint Admissions Board (JAB) in 2013, but only 21 graduated in 2021 due to various reasons.

What challenges do architecture students face?

At the university level, architecture schools should emphasise on the business aspect of the career or at least integrate it within the curriculum. In architecture school, we had zero courses related to business of architecture. The school teaches you how to be a good student, but it doesn’t teach you how to be a good architect. Also, your first job in architecture is the most critical one because it shapes your understanding of the field when you are most impressionable, and the habits you pick up there will serve you (or dog you) for a lifetime.  

In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, 

what are your thoughts regarding future designs?

As architects, there are so many opportunities for us to respond to this change. In some ways, it has never been a better time to be an architect. We have a pivotal role to play in pushing for future designs that incorporate transformative change across so many platforms and sectors— for societal change, for place interventions, for sustainable design, for better homes and wellbeing in the workplace.

Who is to blame for tragedies associated with collapsing buildings in the country?

I blame lack of proper supervision, inspection and monitoring of construction works. On defective buildings, this arises when contractors fail to carry out the works in accordance with architects and engineers’ specifications. They do this in order to maximise on profit. Sometimes specified materials are substituted for substandard ones. Other areas of concern, include poor concrete mixes, premature removal of formworks and general poor workmanship.