Question 1

Do I need to want to study architecture to apply?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Many students join the lab curious about the different fields of design, architecture being one of them but unsure if it is the right path. The program is designed to give you a real sense of what this industry demands, so you leave knowing whether it is for you or not.

Question 2

Do I need any prior architecture or design experience?

Accepted Answer

No. The lab starts from scratch. Phase 1 builds the foundations every student needs before any design work begins.

Question 3

What grade levels can apply?

Accepted Answer

The lab is open to students in Grades 8 through 12, anywhere in the world.

Question 4

How much time do I need to commit each week?

Accepted Answer

Live sessions run on Saturdays and Sundays. Outside of that, expect additional team work and independent study of around 3 to 4 hours per week.

Question 5

What if my time zone doesn't work for live sessions?

Accepted Answer

Sessions are scheduled to accommodate students across multiple time zones. All sessions are recorded for students who cannot attend live due to unavoidable time zone conflicts.

Question 6

What tools and materials will I need?

Accepted Answer

A laptop with a working camera and microphone, a reliable internet connection, a sketchbook, and basic drawing materials.

Question 7

Do I need to buy any software?

Accepted Answer

No. All digital tools used in the program are either free or browser based. A full tools list will be shared before the program begins.

Question 8

How are teams formed?

Accepted Answer

Teams of 4 to 6 students are formed at the end of Week 1 based on brief preferences, home city, grade level, and time zone. Studio BuildByThought and BuildUp form teams to ensure a mix of backgrounds and geographies within each group.

Question 9

What does the final jury look like?

Accepted Answer

A live session on Zoom with a panel of external practising architects. Each team presents their full project and defends their design decisions, exactly as they would in architecture school.

Question 10

What do I actually leave with?

Accepted Answer

A team design folio with presentation boards, drawings, and model documentation built across 12 weeks. This can go directly into a design school application.

Question 11

How is this different from a regular architecture workshop or summer program?

Accepted Answer

Most programs teach you about architecture. This one puts you through the actual process of designing a building, with real industry mentors, feedback, and a real portfolio piece at the end.

Question 12

What is the application process?

Accepted Answer

Submit your application online before June 15. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for a short interview with the BuildUp team. Final decisions are communicated on a rolling basis.

Start your application.

The Architecture Lab Application

Student details

Program fit & experience

How did you hear about us?

Program acknowledgment

Scholarships