Yasmin Al-Ani Spence tells Building about the Chrysler building in New York, Bob the Builder and Villa Tugendhat in Brno

Al-Ani Spence, Yasmin_pressnew

What has been your biggest career challenge to date?  

Every project is a challenge … the biggest challenge for me is managing my family and my work 

If you could change one thing about the industry, what would it be? 

More flexibility in working hours and a few more open minds  

Why did you choose construction as a career? 

I knew early on that I was dyslexic so always felt more comfortable in creative subjects. Having been brought up in the Middle East and Austria also had a big impact on my interest in architecture   

What have you worked on that you’re most proud of? 

I am proud of all the projects and of the fundamental human relationships that are formed through working on them 

Most helpful advice you were given? 

Always be bigger than the problem 

Chrysler-Building-New-York-shutterstock_787652065

Source: Shutterstock

Chrysler building in New York

What’s your favourite building in the world? 

That’s a difficult one as attitudes always change, but a constant favourite is the Chrysler building in New York  

What single piece of advice would you give to someone just starting out in your profession?  

At the end of the day architecture is about people. Always keep in mind that while made from brick and mortar, these buildings are the places that shape our lives  

Who do you most admire in the construction industry? 

Bob the Builder  

Bob the Builder LEGO shutterstock_1137465398

Source: Shutterstock

What famous building do you wish you’d worked on?  

Villa Tugendhat by Mies Van Der Rohe is way ahead of its time and well worth a visit.  

Villa-Tugendhat,-Brno

Source: Shutterstock

Villa Tugendhat in Brno by Mies Van Der Rohe

Which famous building do you most dislike?  

There are lots! The building on the corner of Shaftesbury Avenue and Piccadilly circus was one the first I particularly disliked when I first arrived in London.  

What’s it like being you?  

Brilliant …

What do you think your best quality is?  

I‘d like to think that I am fairly cheerful person 

Do you have a life philosophy?  

Always treat others as you wish to be treated  

Name three things that you like 

If things and not people, then … a glass of wine, my car and smiling  

red wine shutterstock_794052133

Source: Shutterstock

What’s a secret skill we don’t know you have?   

I couldn’t possibly tell you that  

What’s your most prized possession?  

My kids  

Early bird or night owl?  

I am a midday kind of person  

What’s your favourite food?  

Rye bread … 

What would your superpower be?  

To be able to mute people  

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