Wendy de Silva, 21 Oct 08
Wendy de Silva was born in Sri Lanka, immigrated to England in the 70's and studied at the Bartlett School of Architecture, (University College) London.
She started her career as a trainee on a building site with John Laing Construction. Shortly after qualifying, she went back to Sri Lanka and worked with Geoffrey Bawa on the 'Ruhunu University' Project.
Most of her professional life has been spent in London where she has worked on a large variety of buildings including schools, retail, housing and listed buildings. She was a partner at Nightingale Associates, a practice specialising in healthcare projects.
Wendys most recent completed project is 'Cargo Fleet' which she worked on with her partner Stephen Chance. Chance de Silva also completed 'Venus', a studio house, in 1998. Wendy is a director of Dransfield Owens de Silva, a Bermondsey based practice which is involved in a number of community health buildings, housing and mixed use regeneration projects in London as well as the Heartlands Big Lottery Regeneration Project in Cornwall
How does diversity reveal itself in your work?
I am interested in and influenced by everything around me, and am lucky enough to have a thorough understanding of two diverse cultures. This has given me the confidence to be open to the richness of the world's culture, architecture and materials ...... and a brilliant excuse to follow my nose!
Who are your role models?
As an architect: Geoffrey Bawa, who made breathtakingly enjoyable buildings. As a person: Jennifer Jones- an architect who was incredibly open and generous to anyone and everyone who came into her life.
What advice would you give to someone wishing to become an architect?
Its not half as glamorous as you might think. There's a lot of hard work and grind involved, it is fun and rewarding as well. For me it has been a very enjoyable and fulfilling career.
Wendy de Silva will be giving a presentation onTuesday 21 October at 6pm. This will be held at Nixon Hall, Northumbria University City Campus.
This event ie free and open to all including RIBA members, students and interested members of the the public.
After the lecture guests are invited to join Wendy and members of the RIBA North East for a drinks reception in the Hub area, 2nd Floor, Wynne Jones (above Nixon hall).
If you would like to book a place please email riba.northeast@inst.riba.org| or alternatively download the booking form below and return via the instructions.