From Studio to Showcase: Graduate Final Architecture Reviews at Illinois
By Aditi Khandelwal (Graphic Design & Information Sciences, ’27)
Tucked into a quiet corner of Urbana, blanketed in winter snow, stands Temple Hoyne Buell Hall. On December 6, its windows reveal a burst of color – physical models arranged across tables, vibrant posters lining the walls, and students deep in discussion. This is the scene of the Graduate Final Architecture Reviews.
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Each semester, the School of Architecture invites critics from across the country to review student final projects. These multifaceted presentations allow students to showcase their design vision, material experimentation, and creative process. Through detailed drawings, models, and narratives, they articulate the story behind their work and the rationale behind key design decisions. The reviews culminate in critique and feedback, offering students valuable perspectives that help shape their development as designers.
First-year graduate student Jenna Lin reflects on the intensity of the day with a reassuring perspective: “Don’t take any of the critiques personally – they are really trying to make your projects better.” She applauds the reviewers for their expertise and accomplishments, emphasizing how much students can learn from their insights. Jenna encourages her peers to approach the feedback with openness, using it not only to refine their current projects but also to draw inspiration for their future work.
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Gramp Ullrich, a member of the School of Architecture Alumni Board, makes it a point to visit the architecture cohort at least once each semester – an experience he describes as a privilege. He says he is continually inspired by the innovative ideas emerging from the studios and energized by the creativity students bring to their work. Witnessing their growth, he adds, reaffirms his confidence in the bright future the architecture students are shaping for themselves.
As students circulate through Temple, presenting their work and engaging in conversation, reviewers observe, question, and interact with equal enthusiasm. The building has constant dialogue with new ideas forming, perspectives shifting, and discoveries unfolding in real time. Temple transforms into a vibrant haven of showcase, innovation, and shared experience.
Francisco J. Rodríguez-Suárez, Director of the School of Architecture, says “this isn’t just a review, it is a gallery, a show!” He describes the final reviews as a dynamic exhibition; a gallery of diverse projects drawing inspiration from places as varied as Chicago, Barcelona, and cities across the globe. He is deeply moved by the creative energy generated between students and reviewers and looks forward to watching these emerging designers grow into impactful architects.
