Switching Careers from Architecture to Real Estate: Ft. Aqeel Sourjah at Quadrant Estates

Moving from architecture into real estate development can look like a leap, but the design training, spatial judgement and project understanding can be highly valuable on the developer side. Stephen Drew speaks with Aqeel Sourjah of Quadrant Estates about managing ESG-led office developments, moving from architecture into real estate and understanding the commercial roles that shape major workplace projects. The conversation covers: How Aqeel moved from architecture into real estate development What a development manager actually does How ESG, sustainability and workplace expectations shape office projects What international students should understand about UK career routes How AI and technology are affecting real estate and development work Read the episode on Architecture Social: Switching Careers from Architecture to Real Estate Watch on YouTube: Aqeel Sourjah at Quadrant Estates ____ Chapters 00:00 Introduction and technical difficulties 01:31 Meet Aqeel Sourjah from Quadrant Estates 02:07 Aqeel's journey from architecture to real estate 10:45 The role of a development manager 16:44 Understanding job titles in real estate 20:04 Advice for aspiring real estate professionals 22:53 International students and the UK job market 27:10 AI and technology in real estate 29:26 Using AI in business operations 29:54 Creativity in development and real estate 30:33 Staying ahead with technology 30:55 Market sentiment and economic outlook 33:14 Future opportunities in architecture and real estate 35:30 Qualities for success in real estate 43:58 Balancing passion and work-life boundaries 47:13 Final thoughts and contact details ____ Architecture Social Find more architecture career advice, practice insight and live roles at Architecture Social. Browse live jobs at Architecture Social Jobs, compare pay using the Architecture Salary Guides, or explore free career resources at Architecture Social Resources. If you want more structured support, book one-to-one architecture career coaching, or join the Architecture Social Club for community support, portfolio feedback, salary discussions and peer advice. ____ Affiliate learning partner We have partnered with ArchAdemia, an online learning platform built by architects, for architects. If you join through our link or use code ARCHSOCIAL10, Architecture Social may earn a commission. Use code ARCHSOCIAL10 for a discount on the annual membership.