Louis worked with us from January to August 2017.
Co-Op Term Experience
“Most of the work I did at SHA was to assist project leaders with drawings and model making. Due to the large amount of work in the office, I had the opportunity to work on around 30 different projects to various degrees. I have worked on context site plans and existing building models for future design, building plans, elevations, and sections. I helped with details and schedules for demolition permits, rezoning, DP or BP applications, and schematic design for building façade and landscape as well as renderings for panel meetings. I have worked with principals, chief architects, basically all levels.
Most of the projects I have been involved in are rental apartments, townhouses, and single-family houses. I also get the chance to work on few commercial shopfronts, mixed-used buildings, commercial spaces and manufacturing office spaces. The most difficult part I find is to push myself to be able to work on different types of projects in various stages. The other thing is to work based on by-law and building codes here which is a little bit different from how it was in China. Familiarizing myself with wooden structure is also a challenge.
I definitely have learned so much regarding design and structure. I’m lucky to be able to participate in different stages of design, even in client meeting and contract signing, which is a rare opportunity. I also learned so much about the workflow, management, culture and work ethic during this co-op term. But what is most precious for me is to know the nice and hardworking people here. I definitely recommend other peers who want to get more experience out of their co-op term.”