On Common Ground, was born out of our lived experiences as a group made up of many first and second generation immigrants working across the built environment.
Recognising the challenges to practicing within the built environment as an immigrant or person from a diaspora, On Common Ground aims to create a safe space for all within our industry.
It is no secret that visa requirements and salaries are making it increasingly challenging for individuals to remain in the country to work and study or that the existence of essential community spaces are threatened; or that unfortunately not everyone always feels safe in the place we call home. We see On Common Ground as vitally important to celebrating and elevating immigrant and diasporic voices and perspectives to build a more inclusive and equitable built environment for the benefit of all.
Since launching, we have run speed-mentoring evenings, CV-and-portfolio workshops and informal focus groups that surface the systemic obstacles international practitioners meet in the UK. These sessions pair students and early-career professionals with mentors who have walked the same path, sparking honest dialogue and practical guidance.
Mentoring & skills support
Our inaugural speed-mentoring evening (London School of Architecture, Oct 2024) matched students and early-career professionals with architects who have walked the same path. A follow-up CV and Portfolio Workshop (online, Feb 2025) offered peer-to-peer feedback and practical guidance on entering UK practice.
Research & reflection
Throughout 2024-25 we have gathered postcard reflections from mentors and mentees, capturing personal stories and concrete ideas for a fairer profession. These insights will inform an open-access resource on migrant pathways into architecture.
Community storytelling
For the 2025 London Festival of Architecture we are curating an exhibition at The Mill in Waltham Forest, inviting local immigrants to share their migration journeys. Contributors will be paid for their time, ensuring the project centers lived experience rather than volunteer labour.
Advocacy
Drawing on workshop findings, we campaign for fairer visa routes, more realistic salary thresholds, and the protection of essential cultural spaces.
On Common Ground welcomes collaborators, mentors, mentees, and allies. If you have ideas, resources, or a story to share, we’d love to hear from you. By creating safe, supportive forums we help newcomers build networks, gain skills, and shape a profession that reflects the diversity of the cities it serves.