MARK hODSON
Path to architecture: Very fortuitous and inevitable. Hull School of Architecture…full of mavericks, misfits and wildly exotic people.
I love working with clients because: It’s a challenge
Quote that guides me right now: ‘Don’t let the bastards grind you down’ or ‘people make places’.
I wish I’d designed: The Centre for British Art, Yale University
I’m concerned about: The future of my town and the north of England.
A space that has affected me: The inside of a police cell.
The best gift I ever gave: All of my daughters have a sense of humour…I think that’s largely down to me.
I grew up: in Grimsby
Education: Local comprehensive and 6th form in Grimsby
Unbeaten for 2 seasons with Barbarians FC including two cup finals played at Blundell Park…oh, and a few architectural awards.
Why Hodson Architects: I always wanted to have my own small practice.
Favourite space: The garden
Architect I admire most: Glenn Murcutt
Materials that excite me: Timber and bricks
When I’m not working you can find me: Out running
Favourite object: Caran D’ache coloured pencils
Ball point or felt tip: FELT TIP!
Go-to morning drink: Coffee
Something you might not know about me: I’m really good at impersonating people.
I always look forward to: 3pm on a Saturday
I’m drawn to design because: I can’t do anything else
Preferred era in architecture: 1950’s and 60’s
I’m inspired by: Everyday folk.
Go-to unit of measurement: Millimetres…although I’m comfortable with feet and inches too.
On my playlist: wide range…Bon Iver to the Sleaford Mods.
I’m surprisingly good at: Making people smile
Earliest architectural memory: Grimsby Central Library…still my favourite building
At happy-hour I order: Guinness.
Favourite place: The studio.
Favourite holiday: France with the kids.
I chose Cleethorpes because: It’s my home town and that means a lot to me.
I’m my best self when I’m: Laughing
Dream commission: Anything that responds to an evident need, clearly improves someone’s environment and is useful.