Sana Tabassum, :scale

Launching our community spotlight podcast, Stephen Drew from the Architecture Social and Sara Tabassum from :scale sit down to have a chat, discuss all the great things that Sana is up to and share with you all that is awesome about :scale.

Sana is a community member of Architecture Social with her own group. You can find her on architecturesocial.com or at her own fantastic website which is https://toscaleblog.co.uk/

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Exploring Architecture, Community, and Collaboration with Sana Tabassum of :scale

In the dynamic world of architecture, where creativity and technical skill intersect, fostering community and collaboration is essential. Sana Tabassum, the founder of :scale, is a shining example of how passion and purpose can transform an idea into a thriving resource hub. As a graduate from the University of Greenwich, Sana’s journey from starting a blog to establishing a multifaceted platform underscores the power of initiative and innovation.

The Beginning of :scale: A Resource for Architecture Students

:scale began in 2019 as a simple blog, driven by Sana’s desire to share resources and tutorials with architecture students. The spark came when a classmate asked about creating a sun path diagram. “That moment got me thinking about how much students could benefit from accessible tutorials,” Sana recalls. After graduation, she transformed her idea into a reality, launching :scale with a handful of articles aimed at first- and second-year students, as well as prospective architecture applicants.

Over time, :scale has evolved into a comprehensive platform with a strong Instagram presence, a magazine, and an engaged community of contributors. “The goal was to foster a space where architecture students could find support, resources, and inspiration,” Sana explains.

Building Community Through Digital Media

Sana attributes much of :scale’s growth to the power of digital platforms like Instagram. “Instagram is a visual medium that perfectly complements architecture,” she says. By sharing visually compelling content and engaging directly with followers, :scale has cultivated a loyal and active community.

Collaboration plays a central role in :scale’s mission. Sana has worked with creators like Hamza from Two Worlds Design to produce engaging projects, including an IGTV series about life as an architecture student. These partnerships led to her involvement in the MAD Collective, an international network of architectural content creators tackling challenges like mental health and work-life balance. “It’s amazing to see how shared experiences connect us across the globe,” she reflects.

From Academia to Industry: A Balancing Act

As Sana transitions to her Part 1 placement, she continues to navigate the balance between running :scale and pursuing her professional career. “Time management is key,” she says. With the support of collaborators and a clear vision for the platform, Sana remains dedicated to expanding :scale while advancing her architectural journey.

One of :scale’s most ambitious projects to date is its magazine, which features contributions from architecture students and young professionals worldwide. “The magazine provides a platform for tackling critical topics in architecture,” Sana explains. From exploring design methodologies to addressing mental health, the publication reflects :scale’s commitment to fostering meaningful conversations.

Empowering Community Voices

A hallmark of :scale is its emphasis on collaboration and community-driven content. Sana invites guest authors to share their insights and experiences, giving them exposure and the opportunity to develop their skills. “It’s about creating a space where everyone feels valued and heard,” she says.

This collaborative ethos extends to :scale’s future plans, including a growing database of resources, interactive discussions, and partnerships with creators worldwide. “We’re constantly adapting to meet the needs of our community,” Sana notes.

The Road Ahead: Sana’s Vision for :scale

Looking to the future, Sana envisions :scale continuing to grow as a vital resource for architecture students and professionals. From expanding its magazine to exploring new digital formats, her focus remains on building a platform that inspires and supports its audience. “The feedback from our community is what drives us forward,” she says.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Sana Tabassum’s work with :scale exemplifies the power of sharing knowledge and fostering collaboration. In a field often marked by individual competition, :scale offers a refreshing alternative: a supportive and inclusive community where everyone can learn and grow.

For architecture students and professionals seeking inspiration and resources, :scale is an indispensable tool. Explore their content and join the community at www.twoscaleblog.co.uk or follow them on Instagram at @to.scale.