Name: Maggie Lo
Job title: Associate, technical architect, HLW
What I do: I’m a technical architect at HLW with roots in architectural practice and a career now centred on commercial interior design. I work closely with project and design leads to deliver high quality commercial workplace fit‑outs and major refurbishment schemes for some of the UK’s leading landlords and global brands.
Why I got into the property industry: At school, I was especially drawn to art and science, and architecture felt like the natural intersection of those interests. With my father working in the construction industry, I also had early exposure to the field and his encouragement played an important role in shaping my decision to pursue it as a career.
How I did it: I followed the traditional RIBA pathway, completing my Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3 qualifications at three different universities, with periods of professional experience in between. In total, it took nine years of study and practice to qualify as an architect, a journey that was as demanding as it was rewarding.
My first proper job: As part of my sandwich course at the University of Bath, I undertook my first six-month placement at a small architectural practice in the heart of the city. During that time, I contributed to a range of residential and school projects across Somerset and Wiltshire, gaining valuable early experience in the field.
My first big break: When I first started in the industry, there were a lot of opportunities to work on projects in the public sector and I was privileged to be able to work on a range of public building such as the Research and Education Centre for Alder Hey Children’s Hospital. That early experience shaped how I approach projects today at HLW, with a focus on buildings that genuinely support the people using them.
My inspiration(s): Female architects in the UK including Patty Hopkins and Sadie Morgan.
The biggest challenge I’ve encountered to date: The biggest challenge I’ve faced so far has been stepping into motherhood while continuing to build my career. Learning to balance the demands of family life with the pace of my work has pushed me to grow in ways I never expected.
My greatest achievement/proudest moment to date: My proudest moment to date has been reaching a point in my career where my work genuinely impacts people and places in a meaningful way.
The biggest misconception people have about the property industry: It’s an industry traditionally dominated by men, but I’ve been fortunate to work alongside many talented women over the years. Their support has played a huge role in shaping my career.
My biggest bugbear about the industry/the one thing I would change about the industry: Architecture was once viewed as a profession only accessible to the privileged. Today, apprenticeship routes offer alternative ways in, and the RIBA is campaigning to secure ongoing government funding for Level 7 apprenticeships to widen access.
Why I’m so passionate about DE&I: As a woman from a minority background, I understand firsthand the challenges of navigating this industry. That’s why I mentor through Women in Architecture and volunteer with the Inspiring the Future charity, engaging with school age pupils and helping them see what’s possible.
Where I’d like to be in five years’ time career-wise: I am aiming to step into a technical director role, where I can continue shaping projects at a strategic level, while mentoring the next generation of designers and architects.
Who I’d invite, living or dead, to a dinner party: Carlo Scarpa, he is one of my favourite architects.
What I do in my downtime: Swimming and spending time with my family.
The job I’d be doing if I was not doing this: Civil engineer.
My advice for someone just starting out: Don’t rush the process. Focus on developing your skills, asking questions, and finding mentors who challenge and support you.
My motto/mantra: Failure is the mother of success
