Skip to main content

Research Repository

Advanced Search

Diversity or the lack of it in the architectural profession

De Graft-Johnson, Ann; Manley, Sandra; Greed, Clara

Authors

Sandra Manley



Abstract

Approximately 37 per cent of architectural students are women and the percentage is increasing. This increase is not reflected in the architectural profession; women represent only 13 per cent of the total and analysis reveals that women are leaving the profession after qualifying. The research reported here was undertaken in 2003 and investigated the reasons why women were leaving. Research methods included the appointment of an expert advisory group, an extensive literature review, a web-based questionnaire aimed at women architects and a series of interviews with women who had left architecture. No single reason emerged from the research to explain why women left but a multiplicity of factors, such as low pay, poor promotion prospects, discriminatory attitudes and sexist behaviour were found to influence departure. The problem has an international dimension as revealed through the web survey and from ongoing academic interest. There are serious implications for the future of the profession if, through its culture and practice, it loses skilled people after they have qualified. Finally a series of key strategic recommendations for the professional bodies as well as practitioners suggest ways of reducing this female brain drain. The aim is to increase diversity in the construction industry and improve the competitive edge of the architectural profession. © 2005 Taylor & Francis.

Journal Article Type Review
Publication Date Dec 1, 2005
Journal Construction Management and Economics
Print ISSN 0144-6193
Electronic ISSN 1466-433X
Publisher Taylor & Francis (Routledge)
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 23
Issue 10
Pages 1035-1043
DOI https://doi.org/10.1080/01446190500394233
Keywords women in architecture, gender, discrimination, inclusion, equality, diversity, workplace practice and culture, equal opportunities
Public URL https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/1053925
Publisher URL http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/01446190500394233