Building an International Career in Architecture

Megan Burrows had been drawn to architecture from a young age and has used that passion to carve out an international career.

Growing up in Tauranga, Megan says she had a strong interest in architecture for as long as she could remember, especially in how buildings are designed and detailed.

“That curiosity naturally led me into the industry.”

Megan studied Architectural Technology at Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology and is now working in London as a Senior Technologist and recently promoted Associate specialising in high‑end residential design.

“I thoroughly enjoyed studying at Toi Ohomai,” she says. “The tutors were incredibly supportive and highly knowledgeable. They taught me the core fundamentals of the Architectural Technician role and gave me a strong technical foundation for my first job.”  

A residential design project during her studies proved pivotal.

“It was the project that really solidified my passion for the industry,” she says.

Since graduating, Megan’s career has spanned an impressive range of work, from residential homes and schools to shop fit‑outs in Harrods and high-end London refurbishments. Today, she works across multiple projects at once, focusing on complex detailing, site visits, and guiding colleagues.

Her technical training at Toi Ohomai remains a cornerstone of her success.

“Technical detailing, and especially Archicad training were invaluable,” she says.  

“That knowledge put me ahead when I moved to the UK and helped me secure both roles I’ve had here.”

One of her most significant recent achievements is completing a multi‑million‑pound, five‑storey residential refurbishment, complete with basement, attic mezzanines, and an upcoming pool house.

But Megan admits she has faced some challenges along the way and that stepping up into leadership hasn’t always been easy.

“The biggest challenge was taking over a project mid‑way when the previous architect left,” Megan says. “I’d never led one of that size or complexity before, but with support, we successfully delivered it.”

For Megan, nothing beats seeing a design leave the page and become a real, lived‑in space.

“Seeing drawings turn into built reality is incredibly rewarding,” she says. “I love the technical detailing side too, it’s like putting a puzzle together.”

Architecture trends can change but Megan says that top-tier colleagues keep her inspired. 

“Being surrounded by highly experienced people is hugely motivating. Collaborating with them has significantly developed my knowledge.”

Megan hopes future design students won’t feel limited by traditional pathways.

“Don’t feel pressured to go to university to study architecture,” she says. “Toi Ohomai offers an excellent course that can lead to a rewarding career.”

She says her own journey is proof of this. Despite not taking the conventional architecture degree route, she has progressed to roles often held by registered architects.

“My strong technical background has been a major advantage,” she says.

In the next decade, Megan sees herself leading her own team in London, New Zealand, or Australia, and potentially opening her own practice.

“Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone, and have more confidence in your abilities,” she says.