Stuart Mason

About my job

What does your department do?

We have two key roles within the business. One is to provide best practice advice to the group, which tends to take the form of presentations, workshops and design guidance.

The second part of our role is to act as a consultant to all 27 divisions within the group. This work includes producing framework masterplans, feasibility sketches and putting together detailed planning applications for various sites.

What might a typical day involve?

My day can vary a lot dependent on the type of work the department has and in terms of the consultancy work, which stage in the planning process that specific project is.

I might be switching between different aspects of different projects all day incorporating presentations, 3D site models, housetype portfolios, conveyancing, feasibility plans, street scenes and design and access statements using different programs such as AutoCAD, Photoshop,Sketchup and Indesign.

What is the best part of your job?

The best part for me is that as a company we are committed to improving the way we design urban spaces which keeps the work interesting, varied and very rewarding. As a department, we are always evolving our working methods, to improve the ways we present our work and to streamline it without compromising the quality. 

Why did you choose this career?

I have always been interested in design and the idea of improving our surroundings.

What was your route into the industry, what qualifications did you take?

I studied BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology part-time through my employer. Working as an Architectural Technician for Architectural Practices, I moved to Barratt 6 years ago. 

What advice you would give to someone looking for a career in your area of work?

Play to your strengths/passions and if possible get some hands-on experience within a company.

Questions & Answers

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

Sketching, music, playing bass, gaming and travel