IDIAMM

Two questions I always ask in an interview:

1. How is that built?
2. How is that maintained?

Do you ever consider the 2nd question? If not why not? You role is to design a space and make sure it can remain to that level and standard of finish for a considerable amount of time.
4 meter high windows – how are they cleaned?
Planter boxes overhanging a void space – how are they watered and feed?
6 meter high ceilings – how do you replace a light bulb or fitting?

In an ideal world everything you design, you should consider my two questions above. Review your portfolio and ask yourself these questions and make sure you have the answers. In an interview, if they don’t ask, make sure you answer them anyway.

For example:
” In the middle of the double height reception area is a bespoke 3 meter chandelier that reflects and refracts the sunlight from the existing large glass windows on both sides of the space in the morning hours. From a maintenance perspective, this would be cleaned 2 or 3 times a year with a 2 person crew with a small cherry picker (which fits through the 2m wide double doors) and the area would be cordoned off from the public with a designate route from the entrance doors to the reception desk and the lifts while maintaining all fire exit routes.”

This tells me the graduate has considered more than just the appearance of the chandelier, but the access requirements and the impact on the daily operations of the interior. They are real world thinks and problem solvers beyond just the aesthetic of an interior.