Meet the Bachelor of Architecture and Environments grad championing sustainable building materials

Jacques Chevrant can trace his interest in the built environment back to primary school.

"Believe it or not, I was drawing buildings at the age of twelve," he says, recalling the first hint of his passion for and eventual career in architecture.

This early fascination led him to undertake a case study on Chippendale's One Central Park development, interviewing a handful of local architects and consultants involved in the high-profile project.  

"By the end of the case study, when I had learnt as much as there was to learn about One Central Park, I knew there was no way around it: I had to go into architecture."  

Jacques enrolled in the Bachelor of Architecture and Environments at the University of Sydney, a degree that offers the foundational knowledge and skills to pursue a range of built environment careers. The course allowed him to study architectural design, sustainable practices, construction methods and emerging technologies.

Through the degree, Jacques remembers gaining a holistic understanding of the built environment sector and how different areas work together.

"Architecture is so much more than just concept design and the 'design studio': you need to know how to actually get that thing financed, approved, and then built: it's a massive feat."

While at Sydney, Jacques got involved with student groups including the Sydney University Designer’s Association (SUDA), and became National President of the Student Organised Network for Architecture (SONA). Seeking to connect his peers with their future industry, Jacqued organised a bi-weekly lecture series for students that featured local architects. This required reaching out to and collaborating with industry professionals, an experience he credits with shaping his personal and professional growth.

His semester abroad at Politecnico di Milano in Italy further broadened his horizons. He was able to extend his studies with a few postgraduate-level subjects, and explore new cities and countries in his downtime.  

"Sharing exchange with new and old friends was probably one of the best decisions I've ever taken," Jacques enthuses.

"The diverse perspectives and experiences shared with others are unmatched when compared to continuing to study at home."

After completing his undergraduate studies, Jacques gained his Master of Architecture at The Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts. While there, he wanted to pursue a thesis that bridged the gap between academia and practice.

"I really pushed to come out of my studies with a master's thesis that could actually contribute to industry."

This practical approach shaped his career trajectory in Denmark, allowing Jacques to forge the connections and knowledge to establish himself professionally in a new country.

Jacques now resides in Copenhagen, where he works with a start-up company focused on the future of sustainable architectural practice. The firm, Revalu, provides a platform for architects to explore and compare the environmental impacts of building materials.

"I currently work as the UX Lead and get to shape a product that architects use day-to-day to explore and discover new and innovative materials: what's not to love about that?"

For students considering a degree in Architecture and Environments, Jacques offers invaluable advice.  

"If you're still able to call yourself a student, or know you'll be studying again soon, absolutely milk it," he shares, emphasising that his time at university offered a unique opportunity to network and gain insights from industry leaders.

"You'll be able to talk to almost anyone, in any position, simply because you're a student."

Jacques also urges new graduates to contemplate the evolving role of architects in a rapidly changing and challenging world.  

"Is the role of the architect as we know it changing? Absolutely," he reflects.

Opportunities for architecture graduates are more varied and rewarding than the traditional ideal of designing grand houses and skyscrapers. More excitingly, the next generation of students is poised create a more sustainable built environment by learning with and harnessing new technologies.

"To have an impact as an architect today, you have no choice but to look five to ten years ahead. All I can say is look ahead and don't turn back."

Did you know you can use a creative portfolio to secure your place in the Bachelor of Architecture and Environments? Learn about our Portfolio Admissions Pathway.