Gemma Sayer

I am a qualified architect with over 20 years of professional and academic experience, currently working as a Senior Lecturer in Architecture. Alongside extensive practice-based expertise, I have many years of experience teaching and supporting students across undergraduate architectural education.

I teach on Year 1, Year 2 and Year 3 of the BArch programme, and I also run a Year 3 design atelier, guiding students through complex, independent projects that integrate design thinking, technical resolution and critical reflection. I am particularly experienced in supporting students at key transition points in their studies, including preparing for final-year design work, technical submissions and portfolio development.

I am known for being friendly, approachable and supportive, and I aim to create a relaxed but focused learning environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, testing ideas and building confidence in their work. My teaching approach combines clear structure with encouragement, helping students strengthen both their creative thinking and technical understanding.

I have specialist knowledge in Technology and Environment, with a strong focus on adaptive building re-use, sustainability and environmentally responsive design. This allows me to support students working on retrofit projects, technically demanding proposals and environmentally informed architectural strategies.

I am a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA) and achieved a Distinction across all assessment areas, reflecting my commitment to high-quality teaching, inclusive learning practices and reflective pedagogy. I have experience mentoring students with a wide range of abilities and learning styles, and I tailor my support to individual needs—whether that involves design development, technical integration, academic writing or preparation for tutorials, reviews and assessments.

I am passionate about architectural education and genuinely enjoy helping students develop thoughtful, confident and well-resolved architectural work.