Networking in architecture does not need to mean stiff name badges and forced small talk. At its best, it is how students, assistants, designers and practices build trust before a job, collaboration or opportunity appears.
Daniel K Poku-Davies brings a useful London perspective to this. Through Our Space and his wider work, the lesson is clear: connection works when it feels human, regular and rooted in the industry people actually want to be part of.
Watch: Daniel K Poku-Davies on London networking
Daniel K Poku-Davies talks about making real connections in the London architecture scene, why in-person conversations still matter and how Our Space supports emerging talent.
Listen: networking, Our Space and architecture culture
The audio version gives the full conversation on networking, mentoring, confidence and building community in architecture.
Why networking feels hard
A lot of people hear the word networking and imagine a room full of people trying to sell themselves. That is why they avoid it. The better approach is simpler: have conversations, ask good questions and keep showing up.
- Start with smaller events where a real conversation is possible.
- Follow up with one thoughtful message, not a generic pitch.
- Share what you are interested in, not only what you need.
- Use online platforms to continue relationships, not replace them.
- Treat networking as a habit, not a panic move when you need a job.
What Our Space gets right
Our Space matters because it gives younger people a route into the profession that is not only about formal education or who already knows whom. Mentoring, events and peer connection can make architecture feel more reachable.
Common mistakes
- Waiting until you need a job before speaking to anyone.
- Treating every conversation like a transaction.
- Only connecting with senior people and ignoring peers.
- Being invisible online, then expecting people to remember you.
- Going to events without one clear reason for being there.
Architecture Social view
Stephen’s recruiter view is that networking compounds. Candidates who are visible, generous and consistent often have better conversations when opportunities come up because people already know what they care about.
Make networking easier to start
If you want to build a stronger architecture network, keep the first move small and repeatable.
- Choose one event, talk or community to attend this month.
- Prepare one question about the speaker, practice or topic.
- Follow up with one useful message after the event.
- Keep a short note of who you met and what they care about.
Next step
Watch or listen to Daniel K Poku-Davies, then choose one low-pressure way to be more visible in the London architecture scene.
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