Davina Briggs

I am currently studying BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology part time (year 3) while working for NHS Estates and Facilities. I have always been interested in the design and construction of buildings, specifically the technical make up. The projects within this course have further enhanced my knowledge and understanding of the challenges, responsibility and environmental impact each building design has on the built environment.

I have had various roles within the construction & surveying industry. I worked as a PA for a Building and Land Surveyors; followed by a Ratings and Minerals Surveyors. I also worked as a fitted furniture designer / draughtsperson at the Yorkshire Purchasing Organisation which gave me experience of undertaking full measured surveys, spatial planning, meeting deadlines and project management.

I had a change of career and trained as a florist, teacher, and demonstrator for 14 years. This gave me a range of different skills from communication, interpreting client’s design requirement, budget planning and public speaking. However, I kept a keen interest in the construction sector and took the decision to retrain and go back into the industry. I achieved a distinction in HNC Level 4 Construction and the Built Environment prior to undertaking this degree.

I currently work for the NHS Estates and Facilities Capital Projects and Estates Planning team. This is a varied role which gives me experience in undertaking full measured surveys, spatial planning, designing furniture layouts, updating drawings using AutoCAD and project management. This is predominantly a mental health Trust where the guidance and regulations for safety of service users and staff are essential; these requirements have an impact on designs, materials and products which can be used within a building and around the site. Covid-19 has impacted on how the buildings could be used and I have carried out a lot of space planning analysis and designs to ensure safe social distancing regulations could be accommodated.

I have working knowledge of Revit, AutoCAD, Radan Radraft, Photoshop, InDesign, Sketch Up and the Microsoft Office suite.

Outside of work and studying I enjoy yoga, Pilates, running, swimming and walking. I also have a keen interest in gardening and growing vegetables; I am a very creative person and in the process of redesigning the whole garden. I also play the piano and enjoy sewing and making my own clothes.