arceed.com
succeed in architecture
Courses in Architecture and Design
Resources for Studies in Architecture
Architecture Blog
Experiences and Opinions
designed and developed by
Thomas Kern
Dipl.-Ing. Architect (ARB)
Lecturer and Educator in Architecture
Copyright © All Rights Reserved
updated 15/05/2024
Welcome!
Architecture is our Passion!
Education our Mission!
Join us on our journey to explore the vast universe of architecture, magical spaces and fascinating atmospheres.
We want to make architecture accessible, tangible, sensual and meaningful.
Architecture for a better life on earth!
We embrace cultural diversity and inherent creative richness!
Whether you want to build an architecture portfolio or expand your skills, whether you want to switch to an architecture degree or make architecture the theme of your summer vacation, our courses are designed for beginners and masters of architecture.
Beginners and masters take part in the tasks.
Structural Exploration
Form, structure, space and light
The Earl Grey Monument, the name giver of the Earl grey Tea.
Why joining us?
Main Focus is YOU as architect and designer
The courses are designed to stimulate, encourage and develop your skills, whether you are a beginner or already exprienced. Together we want to expand our skills and maintain friendships and networks beyond the duration of the courses.
Affordable and Unique
Most architecture summer schools are not affordable for everyone. And there is no such offering in the north-east of England, despite two architecture schools in Newcastle. We are committed to providing an affordable yet extremely valuable and enriching experience.
Peer-Learning
This is about learning as a shared journey and not the usual academic teacher-learner relationship. No long, boring lectures.
Students and teachers go on the learning journey together.
International and diverse
We welcome students from all backgrounds and cultures. Creativity thrives where there is a variety of experiences and opinions. Teaching materials are geared for an international student community.
Stimulating Environment
Newcastle upon Tyne boasts an exceptionally rich cultural and architectural heritage. Nevertheless, its compact size and studio location allow easy access to relevant attractions and exploring the city.
Stimulating contrasts: Science City, a part of Newcastle University in the background, contrasting with the medieval town wall, the Chinese arch, the symbol of the Chinese community and culture, and architecture of the industrial revolution.
Newcastle is famous for its bridges. The Tyne Bridge is a symbol for Newcastle and the North East of England.
About
Engaging with Architecture
Hello, and very warm welcome!
I'm Thomas Kern, registered architect (ARB) and lecturer in architecture, founder of the arceed.com architecture course programmes.
After decades of practice and working intensively in teaching for many years, I had the impression that there should be a more affordable and individual support for the younger generation interested in architecture and design.
I developed courses in which we experience architecture together. My team and I do the same tasks as you! And we want to learn from your experiences in architecture, your hometowns and local culture. Making architecture a social process is key to sustainable design as everyone contributes and shares effort and responsibility.
There are two inevitable areas of focus:
Sustainability because we must design not only with superficial human interests in mind, but also for a healthy natural environment.
Peace and equality, because only a united humanity will overcome the pressing challenges of planet Earth.
Hence, the courses aim to foster friendship and understanding, an initial ignition for networking beyond the course programme.
It is a privilege to contribute to the training of the next generations of architects.
A spring school at the Stieglitz Art Academy in St Petersburg.
Spring school at SpASK Architecture College St Petersburg.
Hong Kong, Chelyabinsk, St. Petersburg, Shanghai, Moscow and at many other destinations I conducted short architecture courses, weekend, spring- and fall schools.
Courses 2024 -2025
2024
22nd July - 2nd August
10 days
age 16 - 25
Course Fee £759
2024
27th August - 6th September
10 days
age 16 - 25
Course Fee £759
2025
21st April - 25th April
5 days
age 16 - 25
in preparation
More courses to follow soon!
Architecture Summer School 1
"Explorer and Designer"
22nd July - 2nd August
A 10-day course designed to stimulate our enthusiasm and creativity for architecture and the built environment.
We want to observe, reflect and interpret how we use and develop the built environment.
We deal with the contextuality of architectural design and uncover and reinterpret the essential principles of architecture.
We build our skills and confidence in creative design solutions.
We expand our architectural portfolio and demonstrate our vision for the future.
We want to build lasting friendships and intercultural networks.
Course Structure
Content reflects the ARB Part1 criteria.
Tasks are designed for beginners in architecture and more experienced designers.
Each day begins at 9.30 am with 6 -7 contact hours per day and 1 hr lunch break.
One day study trip:
Edinburgh, Manchester or Glasgow.
Starting with an interactive introduction of the daily topic the major part of the day consist of studio or outdoor based practical activities.
Tasks are set as individual or small team tasks.
Outcomes will be shared and discussed each day with an opportunity to critically reflect on the results and to provide peer-feedback.
We provide feedback and suggestions for improvement.
Outcome
An architectural design portfolio.
Feedback with suggestions for future development.
A certificate of participation based on your engagement with programme tasks.
Course Information
Location: Newcastle Arts Centre
Newcastle upon Tyne
Maximum group size: 15
Duration: 10 contact days with 6 - 7+ hrs/per day
Course fee: £759
Deposit: £190
Architecture Summer School 2
"Explorer and Designer"
27th August - 6th September
A 10-day course designed to stimulate our enthusiasm and creativity for architecture and the built environment.
We want to observe, reflect and interpret how we use and develop the built environment.
We deal with the contextuality of architectural design and uncover and reinterpret the essential principles of architecture.
We build our skills and confidence in creative design solutions.
We expand our architectural portfolio and demonstrate our vision for the future.
We want to build lasting friendships and intercultural networks.
Course Structure
Content reflects the ARB Part1 criteria.
Tasks are designed for beginners in architecture and more experienced designers.
Each day begins at 9.30 am with 6 -7 contact hours per day and 1 hr lunch break.
One day study trip:
Edinburgh, Manchester or Glasgow.
Starting with an interactive introduction of the daily topic the major part of the day consist of studio or outdoor based practical activities.
Tasks are set as individual or small team tasks.
Outcomes will be shared and discussed each day with an opportunity to critically reflect on the results and to provide peer-feedback.
We provide feedback and suggestions for improvement.
Outcome
An architectural design portfolio.
Feedback with suggestions for future development.
A certificate of participation based on your engagement with programme tasks.
Course Information
Location: Newcastle Arts Centre
Newcastle upon Tyne
Maximum group size: 15
Duration: 10 contact days with 6 - 7+ hrs/per day
Course fee: £759
Deposit: £190
Architecture Spring School
"Encounters with Architecture"
21st April - 25th April 2025
This is a 5-day introductory course venturing into the fascinating world of architecture. This course aims to stimulate curiosity, to grow key skills and gain awareness for the challenges in architecture. You will encounter the creative freedom as well as technicality of architectural design. A mixture of studio-based activities and outdoor activities are the creative platform to generate relevant and inspiring outcomes.
Outcome
The basis for an architectural design portfolio.
Feedback with suggestions for future development.
A certificate of participation based on your engagement with programme tasks.
Course Fees and Information
Maximum group size: 15/15
Duration: 5 working days, 6 - 7 hrs contact time
Course fee:
Deposit:
Team
Thomas Kern
Architect, Lecturer and Course Leader
The majority of Thomas's career has been dedicated to practice, decades of extensive experience in all aspects of the architectural profession. Education is now his main focus. He developed several university courses programmes and multiple modules. Next to architectural design Thomas taught technology, theory and history and architectural representation on different levels over many years. He is specialist from preparatory programmes and for international education.
"What is important is what I can apply from theoretical knowledge in a well-founded manner.
I am an avid supporter of application-oriented studies. My focus is on the students and their current and future needs, in their studies as well as later in practice. By integrating students and experienced professionals, a powerful symbiotic learning environment is created. The result is the best possible preparation for current and future challenges.”
Brian Tse
Studio Tutor
Currently studying Architecture at Newcastle University.
Brian has a Business and Management degree from Hong Kong and gained professional experiences in this field.
An outstanding performance in a pre-master's program led to studying architecture from the ground up and not taking the shortcut of an non-accredited master's program.
His extensive international experience, exceptional professionalism and outstanding skills make him an asset to any peer learning based studio session.
"I believe technical proficiency is the key to cultivate creativity. With my experience in drawing, CAD software, and model-making, I am eager to share my expertise with aspiring individuals. Together, we will embark on a transformative journey where knowledge serves as a pathway to limitless creativity."
Dora Saidkhodjaeva
Studio Tutor
Currently studying Architecture at Newcastle Univeristy
Dora joined the BA architecture programme at Newcastle University after an art and design foundation at Manchester University, followed by an excellent performance on the International Year One programme at INTO Newcastle University.
Her acumen and professionalism set her apart and enable her to make valuable contributions to every studio session.
Dora has also gained considerable experience in architectural firms, well above the average in her peer group.
“In my opinion, innovative design comes from a committed and iterative design process. The journey from ideas and concepts to physical form can involve many activities and experimenting with them encourages innovative thinking. I am excited to contribute to this journey and share my skills and experiences I have gained so far.”
Please get in touch!
We are happy no answer any question
Please let us know if you need support you in finding accommodation.
Location
Newcastle Arts Centre
The practical studio spaces are located on the 2nd floor in the Newcastle Arts Centre (accessible), close to the Central Station, the City Centre and the many attractions and landmarks of Newcastle upon Tyne.
The Newcastle Metro links the airport conveniently with the Central Station and the City Centre. There are several hotels within short walking distance.
Newcastle Arts Centre is a cultural venue combining practical studio facilities, a well stocked art-material store, a craft and gift shop, an art gallery and music venues.
Nearby are numerous contemporary and historic landmarks, surprising perspectives and street views provide an exciting and stimulating study environment. The medieval street pattern and the engineering wonders of the industrial revolution demonstrate how the city evolved through the centuries.
Newcastle has a remarkable range of free admission art galleries and museums, evidencing the rich heritage and creative energy of the region.
Newcastle University campus and the Northumbria University campus are also in walking distance. Both university provide RIBA accredited architecture study programmes.
For students travelling from abroad, Newcastle has excellent public transport links. There are many direct flights to Newcastle International Airport, and there are frequent train connections to London (ca. 3 hrs), Manchester (2 hrs) and Edinburgh (1.15 hrs).
Newcastle Arts Centre Westgate Road 67
Studio Space Newcastle Arts Centre
Assembly House Exhibition Space