I have been working with XBD Collective as a Senior Architect for three months. While I am relatively new to the team, I already feel deeply integrated into the XBD family, and I am genuinely excited to continue growing and contributing here. The support, collaboration, and sense of camaraderie within the team have made my initial months enriching and fulfilling.
Our week begins with a planning session every Monday morning, where we set our goals, organise our priorities, and map out key submission dates.
Typically, I have deadlines on Wednesdays and Fridays, either for client meetings or formal project submissions. These milestones keep the week structured, and I ensure that all tasks are on track. I also attend on-site meetings at least once a week, where I review progress and address any specific queries. On other days, I’m primarily based in the office, preparing documentation, coordinating designs, and making sure everything is in order for these submissions and meetings.
Currently, my focus is on two primary projects, but I often support one of our larger developer clients, who has entrusted us with six active projects at various stages of design. For this developer, I am the primary point of contact and am responsible for leading one of their projects. My role involves overseeing the design, coordinating the team’s responsibilities, and managing all submission processes, including detailed documentation for regulatory approvals. For our project with St. Regis, I oversee the approval process for architectural materials, with a particular focus on facades and landscape elements.
Each project brings its unique challenges, but it’s precisely these challenges that drive me. The incredible support from the XBD team makes every task manageable, and I feel fortunate to face each hurdle alongside such talented colleagues.
Within the team, I work closely with our Associate Design Manager, Ferran, who oversees all architectural projects, ensuring cohesion across our designs. I also work directly with my fellow senior architects, project architects, and junior architects. Marija, Ade, Nadine, Subhan, and Gbade are part of our core team, and together, we form a strong foundation, each bringing unique skills and perspectives that enhance our collaborative efforts.
Externally, I liaise closely with clients and various consultants. Maintaining clear communication and providing clients with transparency is vital to building trust and satisfaction. Ultimately, client satisfaction is our primary goal, and I take pride in ensuring that every aspect of each project meets the highest standards and is delivered within the set timelines.
It is essential to ensure that our designs are being accurately implemented at every stage, while also keeping clients informed of each development along the way.
My experience as a Senior Architect at XBD Collective has been one of remarkable growth. The opportunity to work with such a diverse range of projects and high-end clientele keeps every day exciting, and I am grateful to be part of such an inspiring and dynamic team. The journey so far has been immensely rewarding, and I am looking forward to all that lies ahead.
