To Scale: A Platform for Empowerment in Architecture
Joining us on the Architecture Social podcast was Sana, the founder of To Scale, a community-driven platform that has become a beacon of support and inspiration for architecture students and young designers. The conversation, led by Stephen Drew, explored the evolution of To Scale from a humble blog to a multifaceted digital presence, including an upcoming magazine and a role in the MAD Collective.
The Birth of To Scale
Sana's journey with To Scale began post-graduation from the University of Greenwich. Identifying a gap in resources for first and second-year architecture students, she envisioned a platform that could demystify complex concepts and provide practical tutorials. What started as a blog to share tutorials and articles quickly transformed into a community-centric platform, encouraging students to voice their opinions and experiences.
Community at the Heart
The core of To Scale's philosophy lies in community engagement. Sana emphasized the importance of Instagram in fostering this community, where she started building a following even before the official launch. This engagement is not just about numbers; it's about creating a space for meaningful conversations and shared learning experiences.
Evolving in the Digital Landscape
To Scale's adaptability across different digital mediums is a testament to Sana's vision and organizational skills. The platform seamlessly integrates its website, Instagram presence, and other social media activities, ensuring a dynamic and accessible presence. This approach resonates particularly in today's digital-first world, where online platforms are crucial in building networks and communities.
Balancing Act: From Student to Professional
As Sana transitions from a graduate to a professional embarking on her Part 1 role, To Scale is set to evolve with her. This shift represents an exciting new chapter, not just for Sana but for To Scale as well. The platform is poised to reflect this new phase of her journey, potentially bringing new perspectives and insights to its audience.
MAD Collective: A Union of Creative Minds
A notable part of the discussion was the MAD Collective, a collaboration between various architecture content creators. This collective aims to tackle common issues faced in the field of architecture, such as stress and work-life balance. It's an example of how digital communities can lead to meaningful offline collaborations and initiatives.
The Future: A Blend of Digital and Physical
Looking ahead, To Scale is focusing on launching its magazine, a physical extension of its digital presence. This magazine is not just a collection of essays; it's a curated exploration of critical topics and issues, reflecting the diverse interests and expertise of its contributors.
Engaging the Community
Sana highlighted the importance of collaboration and community contributions in To Scale's content. Guest authors are encouraged to share their insights, ensuring a diverse range of perspectives. This collaborative approach not only enriches the content but also provides a platform for budding writers and architects to showcase their skills and interests.
Conclusion: An Invitation to Explore and Collaborate
To Scale is more than a blog or a digital platform; it's a community that empowers and inspires. It's a testament to the power of vision, collaboration, and adaptability in the ever-evolving field of architecture.
Sana's journey and the evolution of To Scale remind us of the dynamic nature of architecture and the endless possibilities that arise when we connect, share, and grow together.