As part of our #BASIL_* series, This week Tom gives us an insight of his current work from home days

29.06.2020

As our entire team has had to adapt to different work schedules and surroundings across London, Manchester and Edinburgh. We have launched an interview series to catch up with individuals and see what creative change, tips, and observations they've been experiencing during this time. This week we speak to Architect Tom Russell in London.

How are you feeling given the current situation at this point?

TR: Really good on the whole, I was free of FOMO for the first time in my life during the early stages of lockdown... but now I’m in desperate need of a holiday or change of scene.

Have you taken up a new skill or hobby since lockdown?

TR: I’ve been getting into fermentation, gardening, personal design projects and music making. I’ve been brewing about 3 litres of kombucha a week and tending to our balcony garden. At the moment we have carrots, broad beans, runner beans, courgettes, tomatoes, herbs, sweet peas and a load of flowers. I’ve also been writing a lot of music which I’m hoping to release later in the year.

During the times you've been out, what are the biggest changes you've noticed?

TR: The streets are a lot quieter (although getting busier now) which has made cycling a lot of fun. I cycled through the city on a Sunday evening and I didn’t see a soul. As an architect it was a great way to absorb the architecture, my own private viewing.

What’s been the most challenging thing about lockdown so far?

TR: We haven’t got any kids so it’s been easier, but having noisy neighbours and roadworks surround your flat during a lockdown is enough to test anyone’s patience.

What project are you working on?

TR: 25 Lavington Street, its full steam ahead to the end of stage 03. We submitted the project in for planning during in Lockdown. No mean feat.

How are you finding working from home?

TR: It’s great but the novelty is wearing off now and I’m looking forward to going back to a mix of WFH and going into the studio. I think mentally it’s really important to have that break at the start and end of the day.

Any particular building or space or city are you wanting to visit?

TR: I’m desperate to get back to Edinburgh and see the countryside! The lockdown has made me appreciate the simpler things in life.

* #BASIL_ is an acronym for 'Bennetts Associates Self Isolation Loves', our curated content on social media that brings together inspiration for the #wfh days.