Staff Spotlight 💡
Our next staff spotlight and first one of 2025 is Samantha Dale. Sam joined Hodder + Partners in 2023, bringing with her extensive experience in high-rise mixed-use residential developments. Since joining us, Sam has actively contributed to a range of projects, and most recently, she has taken on a co-leadership role in the Bristol Haymarket scheme. Her knowledge and experience make her a valued member of the team. We celebrate Sam’s contributions and commitment to the practices’ architectural vision.
â—¾ Which project or building do you admire the most, and why?
I’ve always loved the Salk Institute designed by Louis Khan. I admire the way Khan plays with natural light and shadow using simple forms and, incorporating water into the masterplan to reflect light. I particularly enjoy the simple material palette of the building, using simple, strong, durable, and low-maintenance materials, I hope to visit the building in person one day!
◾ What’s your go-to snack during long work sessions?
Not really a snack, but Caffeine usually gets me through the day whether it’s tea or diet coke, sometimes both.
â—¾ What inspired you to become an architect?
Growing up my Dad was a steel frame manufacturer and contractor, I very often visited building sites with him on deliveries. I would watch the buildings go up on the crane from inside the cab of his 7.5 tonne truck, which I found fascinating to watch. I was inspired by the student’s work in the architecture department, on a university open day and never looked back.
◾ What’s one thing people might be surprised to learn about you?
I am a tropical fish hobbyist, in the past I have successfully bred angel fish, Siamese fighting fish and danios.
â—¾ Do you have a favourite book or what are you reading currently?
Ready player one by Ernest Cline, is probably up there with one of my favourite books, the story is set in a dystopian world in 2045 where people escape using virtual reality gaming. I don’t read much these days, but I do listen to podcasts, generally true crime ones pique my interest the most.