What is architecture if not emotions? Kacper Bernat on the challenges of studying and working as an architect

Ola Skorupa

10 of July '25

Podcast Foundations 11#

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Kacper Bernat -
podcast #11 of the series "Foundations"

The episode and the entire series are also available on Soundcloud and Spotify:

Architecture is not just about creating something that is functional and aesthetically pleasing. It's about creating spaces that evoke emotions, create reactions and change the way we see the world around us. In the 11th episode of the "Foundations" podcast, we talk to Kacper Bernat, an architecture graduate from Gdansk University of Technology. The young architect shares his story with us, talking about the challenges that await in his studies and work as a professional architect, and revealing how architecture is connected to emotions, personal experiences and technical challenges.

courtyard of Gdansk University of Technology

past: How did my path in studying architecture begin?

"What is architecture if not emotions?" - is the question the architect asks himself at the beginning of the podcast. Studying architecture is not only about technical challenges, but also about experiences that teach us to perceive space in a whole new way. Kacper Bernat recalls how he prepared for his entrance exams in drawing, then discovered that in reality, modern architecture is mostly about working with technology and computer programs. Nevertheless, emotions and personal experience still play a huge role in the creative process.

PG painter's studio

present: What challenges await you in your internship?

During your studies, one of the most important stages is the internship, which allows you to gain professional experience. A designer shares his experience of working in a design office, talking about the challenges that come with implementing projects in real-life conditions. While studies provide a great deal of theoretical knowledge, what matters in practice is the ability to work with a team, respond to changing conditions and daily challenges that no book will predict. This is also the moment when you can feel the weight of the cost of materials and financial problems that accompany every project.

PG painting studio

future: what prospects await young architects?

Kacper Bernat makes no secret of the fact that although graduation provides a solid foundation for work, full professional independence comes only after obtaining a construction license. He talks about the requirements of the architectural profession and the challenges that come with obtaining full design licenses. He stresses the importance of architectural competitions, which, although often unpredictable, provide a great opportunity for development and expression of creativity.

Architectural design by Kacper Bernat and Zofia Domeracka

architecture is more than just a technique

Architecture is a path that requires not only technical knowledge, but also huge amounts of creativity, resistance to stress and teamwork skills. Sharing his experiences, Kacper Bernat shows that architecture is also about emotions, personal experience and the ability to create spaces that have a real impact on people and their daily lives. Although the road to full professional independence is long, each step is a value in itself.