After a year of travel and exploration Mina's next plans have been put on hold while we ride out the current pandemic. 

Therefore we've been lucky enough to welcome her back to the Märraum team - helping us navigate this unprecedented time.

"Architecture is the perfect combination of creativity and logic. I see buildings as works of art that provide function for those inhabiting them. 

“For me, it’s all about the detail, be it on a modern contemporary building, a historic building or the lines of an Italian sports car. For almost 40 years now, I’ve been working in architecture – from large multi-disciplinary architectural offices, to small specialist practices, applying my technical skills to everything from prestigious listed buildings, to bespoke housing, barn conversions to commercial and industrial projects.

I love surveying a building, working out how it was built and how it may have evolved, from first stepping into a property right through to pressing the print button on the final drawing, it gives me a buzz.
Now I’m working as part of the Märraum team, applying my hand to measured building surveys, detailed technical drawings and everything in-between. Being part of the team is really exciting, especially the way technology has been embraced – it’s a really progressive company.

Outside of work you’ll usually find me on, in or by the ocean, it’s my playground. I love the Cornish coast, stand-up paddleboard racing, surfing and exploring. I’m also a self-confessed petrol head and a dedicated family man.”

BA (Hons) Illustration

“Perspective, space, light, shadow, colour and form, I’ve always been interested in how these elements affect us humans. So, considering each of them when transforming a space from a bland building into something more exciting is a real challenge.

From a young age I was always drawing and painting people and places from life, and enjoyed intricate design and detail. I studied a degree in illustration at Falmouth University, and after looked for a hands-on practical job. This lead me to labouring, which taught me how buildings were constructed from the ground up. I then returned to college to complete my qualifications in carpentry and joinery and served an apprenticeship.

Now at Märraum, I’m learning a new 3D architectural software – to draw up plans for buildings – it’s a great way to visualise a space. I love the way the industry is evolving with the influence of technology like VR and laser scanners for surveys –it’s really exciting.

Beyond architecture, I love to travel. I’ve hitchhiked from the UK to Tajikistan overland, and Chile to Colombia. Whilst the landscapes are incredible and each country has its own uniqueness, it’s the characters, kindness and generosity of people that’s the interesting bit – it’s something money can’t buy.”

FdSc Sustainable Construction

"I’m deeply influenced by design that's not only aesthetically pleasing, but also considers the way a building is used. I really respect designs that consider how people move through a building – combining logic and reason. Where not an inch of space is wasted. Finding a better use of space and the value it can bring? Now that’s sustainable architecture. 

Outside work I like to spend time with friends and family and kick back with walks, food and drink. People are really important to me and that translates back into my professional approach because I’m genuinely passionate about designing homes that enable people to live better lives. 

I love the puzzle that every new client and building brings. I love looking at a floor plan and seeing what spaces need to connect to other spaces, figuring out how to maximise light and views and working to briefs that enhance how people use their space. I’m a problem-solver and I’m not afraid of trying something different. And there’s nothing better than seeing the joy on a client’s face when they see and experience their new home. "

Chartered Architect, BA (Hons) Prof Dip, Passivhaus Certified Designer

“Sustainability within the built environment is the driving force that’s shaped my architectural career. I’ve always been motivated by understanding both ecological and technical approaches to environmentally conscious buildings.

Studying at the Centre of Alternative Technologies, working for award-winning sustainable practices and completing my certification in Passivhaus are just some of the steps I’ve taken to hone my skills. I’ve also undertaken a range of hands-on courses from strawbale building to rammed earth construction, as I feel that having direct experience of how these processes work is key to designing better buildings (it’s also a lot of fun getting your hands dirty now and then!)

Modern art and architecture also have a big influence on the way I design, feeding interesting conceptual work that follows through into realised buildings. Living close to St Ives is wonderful for a burst of culture and working in Jubilee Warehouse is a daily reminder of how a blend of life, work and art is a wonderful thing.

Like the rest of the team, I’m a lover of the outdoors and this keeps my well-being levels high. A work life balance is key to keeping things fresh. A few things that help me are cycling to work, surfing in the depths of winter, hiking in the Lake District, or camping in my VW with my partner and our two spaniels.”

BA (Hons) Fine Art

"Creating a culture where people matter and want to work – that’s what I really care about. That and moving forwards, striving to improve, getting things done.

Studying a Fine Art degree I had to be completely self-motivated – there’s no right or wrong and it’s up to you which route you choose. That was definitely good training for the focus you need to run a business. From HR and policies to marketing, finances and implementing new CRM systems, I’m responsible for pretty much everything outside of our project-work. So it may sound like a cliché, but no two days are ever the same.

Living through two home renovation projects myself definitely helps me to empathise with our clients on both a financial and a personal level. I know how it feels to have a child who’s just learning to walk living through a building project — and I know the budgetary strains of a project from going through that first-hand. I also experience the difference that great design makes to my life every day, and that’s something I’m always grateful for."