Colin Laird was born in England in 1924, and practiced as a sole practitioner in Trinidad & Tobago between 1956 and 2008. President of TTIA 1961-1962.
The Trinidad & Tobago Institute of Architects (TTIA) is a non-profit organization that promotes the ethical practice, art and science of architecture in Trinidad & Tobago. Currently, there isn’t any institution in Trinidad & Tobago offering a degree in Architecture. Therefore, young aspiring architects pursue their dreams at institutions around the world which for many can be financially challenging.
The TTIA together with the family of Colin Laird have developed a Grant to be offered to Nationals of Trinidad & Tobago who are already enrolled in an accredited international Architecture program for both undergraduate and graduate degrees. The first of many such annual grants was awarded at TTIA’s AGM on 20 July 2023 at the Professional Centre. A Committee made up of members from the TTIA and Family of Colin Laird would manage and execute the award of the grant.
Profits from the sale of the book on his works titled ‘Forged from the Love’ would be directed towards the grant. The books are available for purchase. Like many of our members, Colin Laird always supported aspiring students in need.
Sebastien Paddington, grandson of Colin Laird.
“I am a first year Architecture student studying at the University of Kent in the UK. Everyday, I am inclined to interact with physical spaces. This is my inspiration, where an urge to create could materialize from the sun casting shadows or the contrast of built structures. I am an artist at my core and through research and artistic expression, I found certainty in pursuing architecture…”
See Chayil Chung Personal Statement
See Chayil Chung Portfolio
“Basic scientific knowledge states that in order to grow a tree, a seed must be planted, and a seed
needs water to thrive. This is a truth that, in my opinion, goes beyond seeds. Dreams are covered by this. Being an architect was not always my desire, but now that I’ve looked back on my life, I can see the factors that brought me to this decision. I have always loved art, even as a small child. My mother was an art teacher, and I spent my early years watching my sister weave and sculpt. CSEC Visual Arts helped me to further cultivate my love of art. I gained a lot of knowledge from this programme, however my goal to get a Grade I took precedence over my love of painting…”
See Alexia Williams Personal Statement
See Alexia Williams Portfolio
“Growing up in Trinidad and Tobago has greatly influenced my views, goals and aspirations as an architecture student. On one hand, I admire the magnificent buildings that have emerged from the dark past of colonisation and shaped our built environment. On the other, I also appreciate the contemporary works of architects today as we establish our own Trinbagonian vernacular that challenges
that past…”
See Anoushka Fairfield Personal Statement
See Anoushka Fairfield Portfolio
“I knew very well from the beginning that there was an absence of an architecture school in Trinidad. Rather than letting this be an obstacle to deter me, I embraced it as an opportunity for growth. Despite the hefty financial burden, I knew studying abroad was necessary to fulfill my dreams. I refused to let geographic limitations define my path and with determination and unwavering belief, I left determined to do what I’ve always wanted to do. This journey so far has taught me that the pursuit of dreams knows no boundaries, and that true passion has the power to overcome any obstacle.”
“A passion for energy efficiency and sustainable design and the desire to give back to my country drive my journey as an aspiring architect. My experiences studying abroad have ignited my enthusiasm for environmentally conscious, socially impactful and spatially creative structures.”
Our Corporate Partners:
The deadline to submit the online application form and supporting documents is May 31, 2026.
Please note that you must be a student member of the TTIA or have applied for student membership by the grant deadline to be eligible. Student membership applications must be submitted separately from the grant application.
Review the submission details and FAQs below for more information.
Submission Details
Frequently Asked Questions
Scanned copy of local ID will suffice.
The TTIA Education Committee will need to review and confirm the validity of the Architectural Programme to ensure that it meets the requirements for pathways to getting registered as an architect according to The Act by BoATT.
Information on the architecture program, such as the name of the school, the name of the programme, the curriculum if available, will help in clarifying this. If, for instance, the school is in the United States and it is accredited by NAAB or in the Commonwealth by the CAA then the program will likely meet the requirements of BoATT.
Yes, students can apply multiple years.
No. To be fair to all the students that apply annually, a student would only be able to win the grant once.
No. Please apply for the grant by the deadline of 31 May annually. Your applications for student membership would be approved by July/August annually.
$TT 10,000.00 per student. Three students per year would be awarded. The judges and or the committee have the final decision and can adjust the dollar value and number of grants awarded per year as needed.
