PRP Now! Pranav Subramanian // MVRDV

PRP: Tell us about your PRP firm. Where are you working?
I’m working at MVRDV’s main office in Rotterdam. There are about 260 people in the office although the amount of people physically coming in is a bit inconsistent because of the Covid situation in the Netherlands.

PRP: Do you enjoy the city you’re working in? Favorite aspects?
Rotterdam is so fun, don’t listen to anyone that tells you it’s just cold and rainy. I mean they’re right, but there’s so much more to the city that makes up for it. It’s one of the most bike- and public transit-friendly cities in the world and so beautiful even in the worst weather… and the rare sunny days add a completely new flavor to the city. It seems like there’s always something going on, in fact I keep comparing it to Austin in the way that it’s as happening as a big city while still feeling like a small town. You’re also surrounded by amazing architecture wherever you look and that’s always nice too.

PRP: What is currently on your desk? What are you working on?
Let’s not talk about my three finished glasses of tea and Dutch candy wrapper… but other than that I’ve got my sketchbook, a roll of trace paper, and a book on theatre design. I’m not allowed to share what I’m working on just yet, but I promise it’s pretty cool. :)

PRP: Describe the firm culture? The office atmosphere?
Work hard, play medium. I’ve gotta say though, the atmosphere is unbelievably friendly and social even despite the Covid precautions. Everyone is so international and I’m one of three Americans in the whole office, so it’s been really nice to be surrounded by such a diverse community. I can’t imagine how much fun this place is during regular times. Everyone always loves to make fun of us for not having healthcare and entering lifelong debt to pay tuition though, and that’s not as fun.

PRP: What is the first thing you'll tell your classmates upon your return to UT?
Working in meters is SO much better than feet and inches.

PRP: As you’re finishing up the week, what are your plans for this weekend?
I spent my entire last weekend visiting London, so this weekend I’ll honestly be happy with 8 hours of sleep a day in my own bed.

PRP: Is there anything else that you would like to add?
If you have the opportunity, I would strongly recommend doing an internship abroad. The past few months have changed my worldview so much.