Tom Halliday

Choosing Derby

Tom chose to study BSc (Hons) Architectural Technology at the University of Derby due to both its strong local connection and the course’s industry reputation. Having grown up in Derby, the university was a natural choice for him, particularly given the course’s strong accreditation and standing within the profession.

He was also drawn to the quality of teaching and support available on the programme, which quickly became a defining feature of his experience.

Experience at Derby

Reflecting on his time at the university, Tom highlights the exceptional support provided by academic staff as one of the most influential aspects of his studies. Lecturers consistently offered additional guidance, tutorials, and personal support, helping students to achieve their full potential.

As a student with dyslexia and ADHD, Tom particularly valued this inclusive and supportive environment, which helped him thrive both academically and personally.

“The lecturers genuinely cared about student success and created an environment where I felt encouraged to achieve my full potential.”

One of Tom’s proudest achievements during his time at Derby was graduating with a first-class degree, alongside receiving the Dean’s Award for excellence in both his first and second years. These achievements reflected both his academic commitment and the supportive nature of the learning environment he experienced. 

Skills, growth and development

Tom credits his time at Derby in shaping his professional mindset and helping him understand the importance of networking, collaboration, and industry engagement. His placement year was especially influential, providing real-world exposure to architectural practice and business operations.

He explains that this combination of academic learning and professional experience gave him the confidence to pursue opportunities he may not otherwise have considered, ultimately shaping his career direction.

“Looking back, I genuinely do not think I would be where I am today without those experiences.”

Career journey – Hawkstone Developments

During his final year at university, Tom co-founded Hawkstone Developments, a luxury architecture studio based in Derbyshire, alongside a close friend. The business was born out of growing industry demand and a shared ambition to create a design practice focused on thoughtful, refined, and highly personalised residential architecture.

As Co-Founder and Partner Tom oversees all aspects of the business including architectural design, planning strategy, client relationships, business development, and marketing. His role spans the full project lifecycle, requiring adaptability and continuous learning across both creative and commercial areas.

Hawkstone Developments has already achieved significant recognition, including being named among the UK’s Top 5 Best New Businesses in the Small Business Awards 2025, winning Best New Luxury Architecture Firm – Midlands at the BUILD Home Builder Awards 2026, and receiving Runner-Up in the Start-Up Business category at the FSB Small Business Growth Awards 2026.

Advice to students

Tom encourages current students and aspiring architects to gain as much real-world experience as possible alongside their studies. He believes that early exposure to the industry is essential for developing confidence, understanding project delivery, and building professional networks.

“Your time at university provides an excellent foundation, but there is no substitute for practical experience. Don't wait until graduation to begin building your professional presence - take initiative, experiment with ideas, and start small projects early."

Looking ahead

Tom’s future ambitions focus on growing Hawkstone Developments, expanding its project scale, and building a dedicated studio team. Alongside business growth, he is passionate about creating opportunities for others entering the profession. He also hopes to maintain a strong connection with the university through guest lectures, mentoring, and collaboration, giving back to the organisation that played a key role in his personal and professional development.

“I am also keen to give back to the next generation of students and graduates, it would be a particularly rewarding way to support the place that helped provide me with the knowledge, confidence and opportunities that fuelled Hawkstone Developments.”