Developing Design Skills with a Community Mindset

Charlie Kay is a dedicated Part I Architectural Assistant at SPACE, currently undertaking a four-year Master’s Degree Apprenticeship at Northumbria University alongside his role in the practice. Consistently demonstrating a strong commitment to teamwork, a thoughtful hands-on approach, and a genuine curiosity about how buildings are made and used, Charlie has contributed to a growing portfolio of adaptive reuse and education projects.

Key contributions include Oxbridge Lane Primary School and Sunderland University’s Murray Health building, both complex existing structures that have been carefully navigated through the production of high-quality drawings, models, visualisations and reports. Charlie’s calm, methodical approach has proved particularly valuable when working with challenging existing conditions, while his clear communication and active involvement in meetings and site visits have supported the successful delivery of both projects.

He has also assisted on Durham Academy and Hopetown, alongside the Remaking Beamish Pockerley exhibit, where he supported Phil Lloyd in developing and delivering elements of the scheme. He continues to contribute to a range of education and residential projects, producing drawings, resolving technical queries and steadily building confidence and capability in BIM-led workflows.

Outside of work, Charlie enjoys a wide range of sports, with a particular passion for squash and a strong interest in football and Formula 1. An avid traveller, he has recently explored Vietnam, Canada and the Dolomites, while also indulging his love of skiing whenever possible. Recognised for his positive attitude, practical ability and collaborative approach, Charlie has been nominated for both the YAPF Apprentice of the Year and the Collaborative Attitude Award, a reflection of the character and generosity he brings to his projects and to the wider studio culture.