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Raquel Thompson: Shaping the Future of Caribbean Architecture with Vision and Purpose

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From Barbados to Howard University and back, architect Raquel Thompson. leads with innovation, cultural awareness, and a passion for sustainable design In the evolving landscape of Caribbean architecture, few names resonate with as much promise and purpose as Raquel Thompson , Principal Architect at Front House Design Studio in Barbados . With a deep-rooted commitment to sustainable design and a career shaped by both global education and local experience, Raquel exemplifies the new generation of architects redefining the Caribbean’s built environment. Raquel’s journey began with a foundation in design at the Barbados Community College, where her early passion for architecture took shape. Her natural ability to merge aesthetics with functionality quickly became apparent, propelling her toward higher education abroad. She went on to earn her Bachelor of Architecture degree from Howard University in Washington, D.C. — one of the leading historically Black universities in the United State...
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Spaces with Purpose: The Architectural Vision of Raquel Thompson

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 How one architect blends creativity, construction, and community Architecture is more than just the design of buildings—it is the creation of spaces that define how people live, work, and connect. For Raquel Shaheda Karimah Thompson , architecture has always been about more than structure; it’s about meaning. With over 13 years of professional experience in the field, Raquel has developed a career that demonstrates not only technical excellence but also a deep commitment to community impact and human-centered design. Education as the Starting Point Raquel’s journey into architecture began at Barbados Community College , where she pursued her degree and developed a strong foundation in design principles, construction methods, and project management. The program offered her not just theoretical knowledge, but practical tools to navigate the complexities of architectural practice. This educational experience set the stage for what would become a career defined by curiosity, problem-...
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Location: Bridgetown, Saint Michael Barbados
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Maximizing Space: Tips for Small-Scale Architectural Design

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  Maximizing space in small-scale architectural design requires creativity, strategic planning, and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you make the most of limited space: Functional Layout : Prioritize functionality by designing a layout that optimizes the use of space. Consider the flow of movement within the space and ensure that every square foot serves a purpose. Flexibility is key, so design multifunctional spaces that can adapt to different needs throughout the day. Utilize Vertical Space : Take advantage of vertical space by incorporating tall cabinets, shelves, and storage units. Floor-to-ceiling storage helps minimize clutter and makes the most of available square footage. Consider installing built-in shelving or mezzanine levels to create additional storage or living space. Open Floor Plans : Open floor plans create a sense of spaciousness by eliminating unnecessary walls and barriers. Combining multiple functions within a single, open space can make small a...
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Location: Bridgetown, Saint Michael Barbados
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Becoming an Architect: What You'll Need to Know

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 Becoming an architect is a journey that requires a combination of education, experience, creativity, and technical skills. Here’s an overview of what you’ll need to know: Education: Typically, becoming an architect requires a professional degree in architecture from an accredited program. This could be a Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) or a Master of Architecture (M.Arch) degree. Some programs also offer a five-year combined Bachelor’s and Master’s program. Licensing: In most countries, including the United States, architects must be licensed to practice. Licensing requirements vary by jurisdiction, but generally involve completing a professional degree, gaining a certain amount of work experience through an internship program (often called the Architectural Experience Program, or AXP), and passing the Architect Registration Examination (ARE). Design Skills: Architects must have a strong sense of design and aesthetics. This involves creativity, the ability to think spatially,...
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Location: Bridgetown, Saint Michael Barbados
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Raquel Thompson Barbados - Finding an Architect Suited For Your Needs

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An architect is one of the many professionals in the community whose specialization is designing the best possible layout of homes and other infrastructures. By the phrase, ‘best possible’, it means exceptional physical appearance, functionality, safety and economic value. An architect transforms a good building idea into feasible plans and images. This licensed professional in building design will be involved from the planning part, to the execution of the plan until the completion of the entire building project. An architect possesses the necessary skills involved in design, engineering, management, supervision and communication so that a project will finish in conformity to the plan. Although there are people who just see architects as extra expense to add to the budget or obstacle in the quick completion of the construction tasks, the duties they perform are nevertheless indispensable in constructing houses and building structures that are creative, safe, functional and economical....
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Location: Bridgetown, Barbados
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Raquel Thompson Barbados - Choosing The Right Architect For Your Commercial Real Estate Development

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 A good real estate development starts with the right architect. An architect is concerned not only with the concept but also the planning as well as designing of a building or any real estate development. A degree in architecture equips one with the knowledge of the building and operational codes that are to be adhered for every architectural design. An architect is trained such that he/she transforms a user’s needs and demands into design and eventually into physical form. This implies that he/she should have complete training that will aid in the building of safe and healthy construction for people and the communities. Architects have to obtain licenses to practice architecture as their building designs and planning decisions play a vital role in the safety and security of the public. Architects specialize in different fields among architecture i.e., land, land development, buildings, office parks, residential, landscape and the like. This specialization is a result of the incre...
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Location: Bridgetown, Barbados
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