Mailen Design had the privilege of participating in an inspiring Career Insight Day with Open Palm at Dolphin Square, our latest project in the multi-residential sector. This event brought young people face-to-face with employers in architecture, construction, surveying, and real estate development, offering invaluable insight into each sector. Held amidst Dolphin Square’s ongoing restoration—a project that brings together the expertise of Mailen Design, Radcliffes, Galliford Try, and Abakus—the event featured hands-on activities, guided tours, and collaborative learning sessions.
Mailen Design has been at the forefront of Dolphin Square’s restoration, contributing to the seven-year programme aimed at modernising and enhancing this historic residential complex. Dolphin Square’s expansive south and east blocks are being retrofitted to improve living spaces for its residents, incorporating sustainable technologies and design elements that respect the building’s architectural heritage. The event allowed participants to witness firsthand the work in progress and understand the scale and significance of restoring such a landmark in the heart of London.
LEADING A DESIGN WORKSHOP ON ARCHITECTURAL PRINCIPLES
Members of Mailen Design’s team, including Architect and Director Jon Humphreys as well as Project Architect Ruxi and Part II Architectural Assistant Maggie, led participants in a dynamic design workshop that provided a hands-on experience in architectural planning. Students received a blank layout of a Dolphin Square apartment, stripped down to its structural columns and risers. Their brief was to reimagine the space, balancing functionality with spatial efficiency to include four bedrooms, communal areas, and essential amenities.
Our team was truly impressed by the level of creativity and professionalism these young participants brought to the task. As we moved from table to table, we offered guidance, answered questions, and discussed strategies for making the most of the available space. Each team approached the task with fresh ideas and enthusiasm, engaging deeply with concepts like flow, room hierarchy, and structural constraints—all fundamental aspects of architectural design.
At the end of the session, each team presented their layouts, confidently explaining their design choices and the reasoning behind them. The calibre of work was remarkable, making it challenging to select just one winner. Ultimately, we awarded one team the top prize, which included a certificate of completion and a special gift. In recognition of the exceptional quality of work across the board, we also chose additional winners for creativity and presentation. The experience left a lasting impression on our team, showcasing the incredible potential within these future architects.
PARTNERING WITH OPEN PALM TO INSPIRE DIVERSITY IN ARCHITECTURE
Open Palm’s mission is to bridge the opportunity gap for young people from diverse ethnic and social backgrounds, equipping them with the skills and exposure needed to excel in industries like architecture, real estate, and construction. Through career insight days, Open Palm creates meaningful connections between young talent and potential employers, enabling young people to gain experience that could lead to future placements and apprenticeships.
Mailen Design was thrilled to support Open Palm’s impactful initiative. We firmly believe that a diverse range of perspectives enriches the architectural field and leads to more inclusive and innovative design solutions. The energy and passion these young individuals brought to the day underscored the importance of fostering talent from a broad range of backgrounds.
REFLECTING ON A REWARDING DAY AT DOLPHIN SQUARE
Our involvement with the Dolphin Square restoration has always been more than just a project; it’s a chance to contribute meaningfully to a ensure a thriving London for future generations. Partnering with Open Palm to provide young people with hands-on architectural experience was both a privilege and a rewarding reminder of the importance of mentorship in our industry. We extend our gratitude to our project partners—Radcliffes, Galliford Try, and Abakus—for supporting this event and to Open Palm for leading such a vital mission in our field.
As we continue our journey with Dolphin Square, we look forward to more opportunities to collaborate with Open Palm, empowering the next generation to dream big and build creatively.