To celebrate International Women’s Day 2025, which takes place on 8 March, BE News is running a series of interviews with inspirational women who work across the built environment sector
Name: Arti Gurjar
Title: Senior technical coordinator, Berkeley
What I do: I work for Berkeley in the capital division on a regeneration project called Poplar Riverside. I work at the project office within the technical team leading phase one delivery on site.
Why I got into the property industry: I began my career as an architect, but gradually shifted towards construction, which led me to work on-site for a Tier 1 property developer.
How I did it: My journey into property development was a long one. After spending 10 years as an architect, I realised I wanted to be more involved in the tangible aspects of projects, managing the design process while being closer to construction. This ultimately steered me towards my current role.
My first proper job: After earning my architecture degree (RIBA Part 1), I started my graduate career in Cluttons’ building division. Before committing to two more years of university to continue my architectural studies, I explored a potential career in building surveying. However, after six months, I reaffirmed my passion for architecture and applied for a diploma in architecture (RIBA Part 2).
My first big break: Working as an architectural assistant for Benoy on Westfield shopping centre in White City with some truly talented designers – this was when I realised this is the path I wanted to pursue.
My inspiration(s): My father who is a builder and had his own domestic-based construction business, inspired me to enter the world of building and construction. My mother, who has always been adventurous and funny yet fearless, is also an inspiration. She always reminds me that hard work, determination and courage can go a long way.
The biggest challenge I’ve encountered to date: In the early years of my career, I often faced additional challenges due to my gender. Working in a male-dominated environment, I found myself having to work harder to establish credibility and earn respect, especially as the only woman on the team. This added pressure to prove myself, but it also strengthened my resilience and determination.
My greatest achievement/proudest moment to date: One of my proudest moments was having my work featured in the MSA Top 25 exhibition at the end of my architecture diploma course (RIBA Part 2) at Manchester School of Architecture. Not only was my work displayed and published, but I also won the award for ‘Best Image of the Year’.
Another highlight was showing my family the Network Rail headquarters in Milton Keynes – The Quadrant: MK – a project I worked on for more than two and a half years. It was the first project where I was involved from concept design through to production and handover. A year after its completion, a friend who works in the building told me: “One of the reasons I love my job is because of the building – it’s such a great space to work and collaborate.” Hearing that my design helped create a positive workplace environment was incredibly rewarding.
I’m also proud of the current project I’m working on. Having been on this project for five years, it’s been incredible to see Poplar Riverside take shape. From four striking brick blocks with pitched roofs to the vibrancy of brightly coloured Italian kitchens and bathrooms, the transformation of what was once a quiet Leven Road streetscape into a thriving community has been a joy to witness. And the best part? This is only phase one! With three more phases to go, there’s so much more to design and create – we’re only just getting started!
The biggest misconception people have about the property industry: One common misconception is that the property industry guarantees quick and easy returns. In reality, success requires taking calculated risks, having patience, and developing a deep understanding of the market before making big moves. It’s a long-term game, where strategic decision-making is just as important as opportunity.
Why I’m so passionate about DE&I: I am passionate about DE&I because it creates an environment where people from all walks of life and backgrounds are recognised and respected, whether in the workplace, community, or society as a whole. It also helps foster innovation, understanding and collaboration by bringing together different perspectives and experiences.
Why I’m so passionate about ESG: I think my passion about ESG comes from a desire to drive a meaningful change and creating a better world – not just for myself but for others, especially the future generations. I want to create a sustainable, fair and responsible world which aligns with my belief in making a positive impact.
Where I’d like to be in five years’ time career-wise: Continue to be working for Berkeley while seeing Poplar Riverside grow beyond phase two. I also want to continue to promote women in construction and become a mentor to the younger generation who have joined or are looking to join the industry.
Who I’d invite, living or dead, to a dinner party: Mary Berry and Nigella Lawson for their fabulous receipts and cookery skills; Elvis Presley, Pharrell Williams and Beyoncé to sing; Bruce Forsyth for the party tricks; Ant and Dec to help host and entertain; Barack Obama – just because he seems so cool; the cast of Sex and The City – it’s amazing how even today their personalities can characters are so relevant – and without a doubt, my twin sister – she’s always been my biggest supporter and the ‘fun twin’!
What I do in my downtime: I love going to the gym to have a good workout, it’s my therapy.
The job I’d be doing if I was not doing this: I would have become an accountant!
My advice for someone just starting out: Be kind to yourself. Most people started where you are, and no doubt you have talent and potential to develop, hence why you were chosen to join the team, project and job! So just believe in yourself.
My motto/mantra: Less is more.
Why IWD is important to me: IWD is important because it presents the opportunity to celebrate the strengths, courage and determination of all women – It’s when we can honour the contribution of women in all aspects of life, from family and community to careers and leadership.
