Architecture Students: What to Do in Your Spare Time

Architecture school can be grueling, with tight deadlines and weekends consumed by plates and projects.

However, even the busiest architecture student needs downtime to recharge and avoid burnout.

In this blog, I’ll share activities that aren’t architecture-related to help you unwind, explore new interests, and achieve a more balanced life.

Whether you’re on vacation or just carving out spare time, these ideas will inspire you to make the most of your breaks.

1. Catch Up on Your Favorite Shows

Let’s be honest—sometimes the most productive thing you can do is nothing.

Binge-watching your favorite series or discovering new ones can be a guilt-free way to recharge.

It’s all about being intentional with your leisure time.

If you’re not sure where to start, consider thought-provoking shows or genres you don’t usually watch.

Stepping outside your comfort zone, even in entertainment, can be refreshing.

2. Enroll in Online Classes

Okay, hear me out—this doesn’t have to be related to architecture!

Online classes can help you develop new skills or revisit areas you’ve always wanted to explore.

For example:

• Personal Growth: Build your confidence with courses such as film-making or painting!

• Finance: Learn the basics of investing, starting a business, or money management.

You can explore platforms like LinkedIn Learning or Coursera for free or affordable options.

Taking classes that align with your personal interests can help you grow without feeling like work.

3. Experiment in the Kitchen

Unleash your inner chef! Learning to cook can be both practical and creative, offering a fun break from your usual routine.

Whether it’s trying out new recipes or perfecting your comfort food, cooking can be therapeutic.

4. Try Writing as a Creative Outlet

Whether it’s journaling, songwriting, or blogging, writing is a powerful way to express yourself and process your thoughts.

For architecture students, writing can even enhance your design storytelling skills.

If you’re not sure where to start, consider writing about your personal growth.

Who knows? This could lead to a new hobby—or even a side hustle!

5. Build Your Online Presence

In today’s digital world, having a strong online presence is crucial.

Use your downtime to:

• Polish Your LinkedIn Profile: Highlight your skills, awards, and projects. Consider adding a render or portfolio piece as your banner image.

• Create a Professional Instagram or Pinterest: Share your designs, sketches, or even work-in-progress projects to attract potential employers or collaborators.

• Explore ResearchGate: If you’ve completed a thesis or academic research, publish it on ResearchGate to connect with academics and professionals in your field.

Building your personal brand now can set you up for future opportunities.

6. Update or Redesign Your Portfolio

Your portfolio is your professional identity as an architect.

Use your spare time to:

• Organize your best projects.

• Re-render older works to reflect your current skills.

• Experiment with layout and presentation styles.

Starting early ensures you won’t be scrambling when it’s time to apply for jobs.

7. Explore Business Opportunities

Many architecture students and professionals delve into side businesses—graphic design, painting, or even food ventures.

Running a small business can teach you valuable skills like marketing and client management, which are transferable to your architecture career.

You could also treat your creative endeavors, like blogging or crafting, as a mini-business to generate passive income.

8. Dive into a Good Book

Books are a great escape, whether you’re into fiction or non-fiction.

If you’re looking to stay architecture-adjacent, try books like Architect and Entrepreneur: A Field Guide by Eric Reinholdt, which offers practical insights into building a design business.

Prefer something lighthearted? Fiction books can transport you to new worlds and offer a mental break from screens.

9. Fix Your Sleep Schedule

All-nighters and irregular sleep are practically synonymous with architecture school, but downtime is your chance to reset.

Prioritize sleep to restore your energy, improve focus, and maintain overall health.

If you struggle to adjust, try:

• Gradual shifts in bedtime.

• Setting consistent wake-up times.

• Creating a relaxing nighttime routine.

10. Pursue a Hobby Unrelated to Architecture

Do something purely for fun! Whether it’s painting, dancing, or hiking, reconnecting with your hobbies can help you maintain balance and rediscover joy outside your coursework.

Final Thoughts

After years of late nights and endless plates, taking a break from architecture is not just refreshing—it’s essential.

Use your spare time to recharge, explore new interests, and prepare for your future.

The key is to strike a balance between rest and growth, ensuring you’re ready for whatever comes next.

Have other ideas? Share them in the comments below. For now, take a breather—you deserve it!