Statement

Living in Central London I am surrounded by many innovative examples of contemporary architecture and seeing (literally) key projects such as Renzo Piano’s ‘The Shard’ and Foster’s ‘The Gherkin’ become reality, provides a constant reminder of the impact architecture has on the world. However, as well as my interest in these signature corporate buildings, I am also keenly aware of the need for both affordability and sustainability in today’s European post-growth economy.

Evidencing this, my recent EPQ essay compares case studies of sustainable domestic architecture and explores the innovative approaches taken by their architect / self-builders to limit the environmental impact of both embedded carbon and running costs. Of particular interest to me in this regard is Richard Hawke’s house ‘Crossway’. Dominated by a massive unsupported clay tiled parabolic arch built to 14th century principles, the house is however, really noteworthy for the many avant-garde technologies used enabling it to become the first retrospectively certified passive house in the United Kingdom.

This EPQ project involved research, complemented by visits to the Eco-build conference at Excel and trade shows such as Clerkenwell Design Week and New Designers in Islington. Whilst historical context was provided by exhibitions at the V&A and the Barbican’s epic ‘Bauhaus: Art as Life’, where it is apparent that the adage ‘form follows function’ continues to be a major influence for contemporary architects and designers.

This Summer I gained a practical insight through work experience with BHM Architects, specialists in the education sector. I was taken on various site visits, undertook office tasks and shadowed architects. They assisted me drawing up a plan using CAD and I was also able to converse with practising architects of varying seniority, hearing about their experiences and specialities and what it meant for them to study and attain professional qualification.

My passion for architecture is also routed in a desire to learn about the different approaches taken around the world regarding domestic and social building. Last October I went on a school trip to The Gambia to continue a nine year project developing Kotu School. We raised £20,000 and worked at activities as varied as digging a cesspit, mixing cement for classroom foundations and finishing the exterior and interior of their main hall. This was a fantastic opportunity to see how architecture makes a real difference to the lives of others in the developing world as well as to hone personal skills, such as working on a team.

I am really excited by the opportunity to study architecture at The University of Manchester, being attracted not only by its international and domestic academic reputation but also by the opportunity to live and study in Manchester, adding breadth to my urban London upbringing.