Ethan Suckling
3rd-year student, Bachelor of Architecture and Future Environments
A love of creative challenges led Ethan Suckling to architecture and a desire to make a positive impact through design.
“Growing up, I was always tackling creative challenges, no matter how small. If there was an easy or difficult problem to solve, I’d always choose the latter. This drove my curiosity to explore what was possible. As a child, my dream was to become a certified professional builder for the Lego Group. I later realised that what I really want to do is to innovate for impact, rather than entertainment. I began to explore ways I could follow this dream; eventually discovering architecture. I asked myself: what better way to innovate for impact than to design spaces that people can create memories from for generations to come? I chose to study architecture because of a growing passion to innovate in ways that will have a positive long-term impact on people, place and experience.”
AUT’s future-focused approach to architecture particularly appealed to him.
“I chose to study architecture at AUT for its future-focused course structure, which treats the built and natural environments as integrated systems. When designing for these reciprocal relationships, we can tackle the social and environmental challenges of today, both within and beyond Aotearoa. I’ve found that AUT’s Bachelor of Architecture and Future Environments is designed to create a bridge between impactful building design and sustainable futures. Following graduation, I aim to pursue full registration as a New Zealand architect, specialising in modular design, smart densification, environmental systems integration and place-responsive design.”
Freedom and opportunities
The creative freedom is what Ethan has enjoyed most about his studies.
“What I’ve enjoyed most about my studies is the freedom to explore, while understanding how to transform ideas into meaningful spatial solutions that have the potential to transform the way we live. The studio is a place where we can push boundaries without breaking any rules. This way of working has enabled me to find my passion within design and understand the role the built environment plays in both human environments and ecological systems.
“The Bachelor of Architecture and Future Environments includes a variety of practical opportunities, from visiting the sites you’re designing for to connecting with suppliers of materials and systems to understand exactly how components come together to inform a truly constructable project. Beyond studio work, opportunities to learn from industry professionals are always becoming available through recommendations from student clubs and the academic staff. AUT’s architecture degree also constantly has real industry professionals come in to tutor students. These opportunities help you better prepare for your future career while studying, and AUT has helped me connect with architects who have come from not just Aotearoa, but also many other parts of the world.”
Outside of his studies, he has also enjoyed being invited into AUT’s Amokura Vice-Chancellor’s Leadership Programme.
“Following a highly successful first year of study, I was selected to join the Amokura Vice-Chancellor’s Leadership Programme. The great privilege of being part of this cohort is that I was exposed to an environment of critical thinkers, experienced leaders and the mentorship of AUT’s executive team. As a result, I’ve been able to develop leadership qualities and strategies for tackling complex situations that I’ll be able to apply in practice beyond graduation.”
Advice for other students
Expecting to graduate from AUT at the end of the year, Ethan has some great advice for other students.
“Be curious, experiment and most importantly, believe in what you create. Your success in studying a creative discipline comes from what motivates you as an individual. Studio work isn’t about perfecting skillsets, it’s about discovering how you work, what you’re passionate about and how you communicate your unique ideas. The quality of your work will increase naturally as you learn to believe in both your process and what you make.”
He wouldn’t hesitate to recommend AUT to others.
“The environment at AUT is collaborative, motivating and future-focused. High-tech facilities and student services are all within arm’s reach. Additionally, the great flexibility in the study spaces throughout campus enables you to find a space that’s right for you, whether that is a large studio classroom or a small private space. I’d highly recommend AUT to those who would love to enter a future-focused and collaborative environment that encourages students to push the boundaries during their academic journeys.”
