Architecture student Tom Corbett is half way through his six-year course in the Department of the Built Environment. He was part of the Solar Decathlon team.

“When I signed up for the Nottingham HOUSE team way back in October 2009, I did so in the knowledge that I was joining a chapter in the story of the project. The future promised construction, presentation and recognition — the ultimate goal being to celebrate the build for a month in the sun of Madrid, at the very first Solar Decathlon Europe competition. How little I knew…

“We learnt very quickly that the building site was a different world to the architectural studio. We learnt the need for the right resources, the rules for sharing those tools, and the power of delegation.

“The innovative design of the structure meant some tasks were alien to even the most experienced hands, so the first weeks of building were a little shaky. Inevitably there were some days we all left site frustrated, and more than a little dejected.

“Other days were perfect. Teams would naturally gather and synchronise almost poetically. Together we saw the stairs go in, the cladding fitted (then taken off, then fitted, then taken off…), the surfaces finished, and the cautious steps we’d taken on the first modules become giant leaps.

“I know my part in the story of the Nottingham HOUSE is over, but hopefully my legacy is left in the screws I drove into place and in the passion with which I spoke of the project. I know that I come away with endless experience in the world of construction — likely more than my peers will ever gain in their lifetimes as architects — not to mention in the arts of team organisation and public relations. Most importantly, I created not only a standing structure but unbreakable bonds with those that I did it with.”

“In nine months, some would choose to have a baby. I built a home.”