‘For me the prime motivation is to design something that is beautiful and uplifting. Not just for the people who live nearby and work inside, but for people passing by and people who see it from a distance. It's about presenting something that makes them think twice about what buildings are - about being in a space that they couldn't have imagined before, that makes them smile and that makes them feel happy.’

Levete’s practice Future systems is recognised worldwide for consistently challenging traditional preconceptions of space and demonstrating environmental concern and efficiency, without the need to compromise on contemporary form. Research is a vital ingredient for the practice and a balance between experimental and real projects is kept in order to remain at the cutting-edge of the field. Future Systems have been quoted as ‘laying down the agenda for architecture in the 21st century’ but as Levete says, ‘what really matters is talent, commitment, interest, and passion.’

Current work includes school buildings in Richmond and a Subway station in Naples in collaboration with the artist Anish Kapoor. Amanda is a regular broadcaster and she is also a trustee of the Architecture Foundation and Art Angel.