Win Critiques Over During Project Submissions

How to Respond to Critiques During Project Submissions — And Win Them Over

A practical guide for young architects and students based on professional studio practices

1. The Jury Room Isn’t War — It’s Ping Pong

Critiques in architecture school or design offices can feel intense. Your drawings are up, your model is on the table, and all eyes are on you. But here’s the thing: it’s not war. It’s ping pong. The critic hits the ball — and you get to hit back. Respectfully. Calmly. Logically. That’s how you win people over.

In professional studio settings, juries appreciate clear thinking, clean drawings, and smart reasoning. If you come in with a story and a strategy — even if your design has flaws — you’ll earn their respect.

2. Before the Critique: Set Up Like a Pro

• Board Height: Hang your plans at around 150–170 cm (59–67 in) from the floor to the center of the drawing. Adjust based on room and audience.
• Model Placement: Place your physical model at around 90–110 cm (35–43 in) from the floor. Choose based on model scale and viewer comfort.
• Layout Sequence: Site plan → floor plans → sections → details → concept diagrams → visuals/renderings. Tweak this order if needed to fit your story.
• Practice Talking: Don’t memorize. Know your narrative: What’s your idea? Why did you choose this approach?

3. Common Critique Traps — And What to Say

• "Why is the entrance here?"
  “I studied wind and light. The current location brings morning light into the hallway and keeps privacy from the street.”
• "This feels too minimal."
  “I tried to reduce sensory overload for a client with ADHD. Calm spaces can help with focus and wellbeing.”
• "Why did you choose this material?"
  “It’s locally sourced and aligns with the budget. Plus, it echoes the tone of nearby structures.”
• "Your bathroom door is facing the kitchen…"
  “Good point. I’ll rotate it 90° and add a small buffer wall.”

4. Respond with Logic, Not Ego

• Explain your choices: “The window is 80 cm (31.5 in) from the corner so it aligns with the stair landing.”
• Avoid “Because I like it.”
• Say: “That’s a good point. I’ll explore that in my next iteration.”

5. What to Say When You’re Stuck

• “That’s something I hadn’t considered — thank you.”
• “Would you suggest adjusting the layout, or the materials?”
• “I need to think about that more — do you have any references I could look at?”

6. Winning Them Over (Without Trying Too Hard)

• Be confident, not arrogant.
• Don’t interrupt — take notes instead.
• Say: “Thanks, I hadn’t seen it that way.”
• Smile. Look people in the eye. Wear something that makes you feel good.

7. After the Presentation

• Sketch Immediately: If a suggestion sticks in your head, draw it that evening.
• Reflect: Write down what each critic said. Spot patterns.
• Debrief: Talk with classmates. Share notes.
• Don’t Dwell: Was the critique about you — or just the work?

8. Final Thoughts

Critiques aren’t about perfection. They’re about process. If you listen well, respond with clarity, and show that you’re learning, you’re already winning.

And remember: sometimes, the quiet student who admits they don’t know something impresses more than the loud one with a flashy render.

Be curious. Be kind. Be proud of your project — even as you keep improving it.