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An architecture model from CSVPA’s spatial pathway

Spatial pathway · CSVPA

Love design, but not a maths genius?

The UK difference is the opportunity. An art-first approach that values conceptual thinking over equations — and still leads to RIBA Part 1. Pathway leader: Dr Reenie Elliot.

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UK model · CSVPA

70 / 30

Creativity first, technique second. Studio practice and conceptual design. The portfolio is the argument.

Hong Kong / China model

70 / 30

Maths and science first. Exam-heavy. Brilliant if that is the student. A mismatch if it is not.

Your global passport: the RIBA pathway

  1. 1

    RIBA Part 1

    BA / BArch Architecture · 3 years

  2. 2

    RIBA Part 2

    MArch, complex projects + placement · 3 years

  3. 3

    RIBA Part 3

    Professional practice · 1–2 years

Entry requirements, honestly

Top schools want AAA or higher. Mid-tier typically ABB. A foundation year flips the script: portfolio, creative development and potential — not only A-level grades.

SchoolA-levelsKey subjectsUCAS
UCLAAAMaths + Art/Design144
BathA*AAMaths + Art152
CambridgeA*AAMaths, Physics152
UAL (CSM)~BBC / 136 ptsArt/Design / Foundation136
ManchesterAABMaths or Art/Design136
Dr Reenie Elliot, pathway leader for architecture and interior

Pathway leader · student highlight

Dr Reenie Elliot. The studios behind the studio.

Architect. PhD, ARB, RIBA. She has worked for Richard Meier, Tod Williams Billie Tsien, Jean Nouvel, Odile Decq, David Chipperfield and Rick Mather, and runs her own practice. Contested cities, and their representation in media, are her subject. She is restoring Ketts Castle Villa, a Grade II house built by John Berney Ladbroke of the Norfolk School of Painters.

Architecture & Interior Design is a Year 2 Extended Diploma pathway and a Foundation specialism — sitting beside 3D Design, not instead of a maths A-level. The model in the photograph is the argument. UCL, Bath and Cambridge still want the equations. UAL and a CSVPA foundation want the file.

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Write to the concierge that fits.

London · Vancouver · Hong Kong