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Group 23 / DIGITAL DEN
Helda Iulia L
LOCAL COMMUNITY

Marcus Rashford supports the local community and launches “In the box Christmas Campaign” in support of Lifeshare. The ‘In-the-Box’ was created by Manchester United and England International footballer Marcus Rashford to support some of Manchester’s homeless charities – Barnabus, Centrepoint, and Lifeshare. Lifeshare Trustee, Robin Toal, said “We’re thrilled that Marcus Rashford has chosen to support @LifeshareUK, @centrepointuk & @BarnabusMcr with his exciting “In-the-box” campaign. His support will make a real difference to people experiencing poverty and homelessness this Christmas”.

As well-known people are involved in this charity it is an honour for us as well to be part of this project and support the local community.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 17:53
Group 10 / SUPPORTED EARTH
Maryam AI
SOCIAL BENZIE

Socialising has many benefits it might even be the fountain of youth you never knew you had access to. Integrating social activities into your life is key, as it has many benefits. Ranging from better physical and mental health to even lowering the risk of Dementia. Interacting with others allows you to boost feelings of well-being and decrease feelings of depression. Research has shown that creating social connections with others can improve your mood!

Therefore, we hope that the space we create by providing a new activity to gather people. As well as improving the visual aesthetic of the roof garden can contribute to more students choosing to go to the space. Students and staff will then be able to engage in social activities and thus improve their lives as well as their mood.

https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/living-mild-cognitive-impairment/201606/the-health-benefits-socializing
Posted 23 Mar 2020 17:33
Group 04 / CHORLTON RE-USE
Okpetere S
SITE/DESIGN ISSUES

The cabins present a number of issues that we would need to tackle in our design.

1. Water damage - many of the cabin roofs are collapsing due to their lack of waterproofing

2. Archived documents - there is a collection of documents that belong to the council that will need reviewing before their disposal or relocation

3. Usability + Availability of Conveniences - the cabins previously provided a degree of community spaces for the people of Chorlton. They are not currently in use and with our design proposal we aim to maximise the potential of the spaces. Currently there are no toilets and sheltered/indoor spaces where members of the community can come together and gather in the park.

We will tackle these issues and interact with the community to ensure that we are designing for them.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 17:31
Group 23 / DIGITAL DEN
Laura L
OUR AIMS

1. We want to design a flexible space that boosts interaction between users.

2. We will make use of the Adobe Creative Suite and 3D modelling software to create a set of compelling drawings that will be used in the final portfolio and the exhibition.

3. Throughout our meetings with Lifeshare, they have mentioned that this project has a budget and it is something that will eventually get built. With this in mind, we want to create a feasible design which will be in line their budget.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 17:30
Group 16 / VICTORIAN HIGH-TECH CHURCH ROOF
Xinbo W
-I VICTORIAN CHURCH HISTORY 2 I-

RESTORATION
The Victorian restoration was the widespread and extensive refurbishment and rebuilding of Church of England churches and cathedrals that took place in England and Wales during the 19th-century reign of Queen Victoria. It was not the same process as is understood today by the term building restoration.

Against a background of poorly maintained church buildings; a reaction against the Puritan ethic manifested in the Gothic Revival; and a shortage of churches where they were needed in cities, the Cambridge Camden Society and the Oxford Movement advocated a return to a more medieval attitude to churchgoing. The change was embraced by the Church of England which saw it as a means of reversing the decline in church attendance.

The principle was to "restore" a church to how it might have looked during the "Decorated" style of architecture which existed between 1260 and 1360, and many famous architects such as George Gilbert Scott and Ewan Christian enthusiastically accepted commissions for restorations. It is estimated that around 80% of all Church of England churches were affected in some way by the movement, varying from minor changes to complete demolition and rebuilding.

Influential people like John Ruskin and William Morris were opposed to such large-scale restoration, and their activities eventually led to the formation of societies dedicated to building preservation, such as the Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings. In retrospect, the period of Victorian restoration has been viewed in a generally unfavourable light.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 17:28
Group 16 / VICTORIAN HIGH-TECH CHURCH ROOF
Xinbo W
-l VICTORIAN CHURCH HISTORY 1 I-

GOTHIC REVIVAL
Gothic Revival (also referred to as Victorian Gothic, neo-Gothic, or Gothick) is an architectural movement popular in the Western world that began in the late 1740s in England. Its momentum grew in the early 19th century, when increasingly serious and learned admirers of neo-Gothic styles sought to revive medieval Gothic architecture, in contrast to the neoclassical styles prevalent at the time. Gothic Revival draws features from the original Gothic style, including decorative patterns, finials, lancet windows, hood moulds and label stops.

The Gothic Revival movement emerged in 18th-century England, gaining ground in the 19th. Its roots were intertwined with deeply philosophical movements associated with Catholicism and a re-awakening of high church or Anglo-Catholic belief concerned by the growth of religious nonconformism. Ultimately, the "Anglo-Catholicism" tradition of religious belief and style became known for its intrinsic appeal in the third quarter of the 19th century. Gothic Revival architecture varied considerably in its faithfulness to both the ornamental style and principles of construction of its medieval original, sometimes amounting to little more than pointed window frames and a few touches of Gothic decoration on a building otherwise on a wholly 19th-century plan and using contemporary materials and construction methods.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 17:24
Group 10 / SUPPORTED EARTH
Maryam AI
BREAKS AT BENZIE

Taking a break is sometimes just as hard to do as working. One more minute, after I finish this one thing.. However, contrary to what we think taking a break can be the most productive thing we can do.

According to a study a productivity catalyst could be just that “taking regular breaks of two minutes increased productivity about twice as much (11.15 percent) this is due to Brief diversions vastly improves focus”. This can further be explained with the way we think. As taking breaks helps us avoid overthinking and allows moving to the next task at hand.

What you do in your breaks is just as important and effective breaks can help you reboot. Princeton University study suggests exercise as a break. While Mayo Clinic advocates meditation as another effective method to lower anxiety and boost personal health.

But a great break is incomplete without a great space. We hope that our break space can create the right environment for students to re-fresh and improve their productivity as well!

Source & Further info:
https://www.business.com/articles/scientific-reasons-take-breaks-at-work/
https://www.onlineschools.org/science-of-study-breaks/
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/02/110208131529.htm
Posted 23 Mar 2020 17:24
Group 23 / DIGITAL DEN
Laura L
WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

We will start our week by conducting a detailed survey of Lifeshare’s offices which will include: floor plans, ceiling plans, internal elevation plans as well as photography and sketches of the interior space. We will establish a set of opportunities and constraints together with Jamie (our collaborator), which will further help define our brief. We will be using these set of constraints and opportunities to test our team’s level of creativity and imagination during the design phase, which will include sketching and collaging innovative proposals for the digital inclusion room and one to one therapy room.

Once initial ideas are drafted, they will be translated in a digital form through the use of AutoCAD and 3D modelling software such as Revit and SketchUp. The aim of using these programmes is to produce highly detailed drawings of the proposal.

An insightful analysis of the existing site conditions, opportunities and constraints will be produced with the help of the Adobe Creative Suite such as: Illustrator, InDesign and Photoshop. Content production and graphic skills will be developed through the use of these programmes and will further help with collating a beautiful portfolio for the final exhibition.

Through this project there is an opportunity to learn about design processes, spatial arrangements, graphic design as well as develop new software skills. Additionally, communication, organisational and planning skills will also be needed in order to successfully complete the project.

The set of skills learned through this event are fundamental and will be indispensable throughout any design projects that might follow!
Posted 23 Mar 2020 17:22
Group 23 / DIGITAL DEN
Laura L
INCREASED FLEXIBILITY

Given the nature and size of the space, we think the use of modular furniture will add significant value to the project.

The use of modular furniture will allow for the space to adapt to the different needs of the users and staff. This will allow for the programme to extend beyond a digital training room and will enhance the productivity of the users.

As modular furniture comes in parts, it will also be easier to transport it and lift it up to the third floor of Lifeshare’s offices.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 17:20
Group 10 / SUPPORTED EARTH
Maryam AI
BURNOUT

As Architecture students make up the largest cohort in the Manchester School of Art. We found some revelations that suggest that well-being of students in architecture may be jeopardised by the way they engage in their studies.

Dezeen held an online discussion with Architecture students, it became apparent that some architecture students are overworked. Some students choosing to stay up for many hours to try and meet deadlines, however as a result of this push they may be more prone to damaging their health in the long run. According to Dezeen this may be in fact an effect of a “burnout”.

“Burnout” according to the World Health Organisation is a chronic workplace stress syndrome that can be clinically diagnosed. It occurs after being exposed to chronic stress that hasn’t been properly managed.

So yes in the short run students may think that working for long hours is the right approach. But taking breaks and pacing yourself may allow for a better approach. We hope our space can be the perfect place for students to take a break and inspire change. Therefore our space is not just a space to relax but one that ensures students and staff are taking enough breaks to avoid feelings of Burnout in the long haul.

Source & more info:
https://www.who.int/mental_health/evidence/burn-out/en/
https://www.dezeen.com/2019/07/16/burn-out-design-education-mental-health
Posted 23 Mar 2020 17:17
Group 10 / SUPPORTED EARTH
Maryam AI
SOCIAL IMPACT:

As our project is located in the Manchester School of Art, which is home to over 800 students! Our space has the potential to impact students in their own environment and the number of students will only increase as students leave and new students emerge.

As our project aims to create a space that brings in people to the roof garden, encouraging taking a break and being attentive to personal well-being. Our space can help students decide how they approach their day, whether they choose to take a break in a relaxing space. Or if they want to engage with gardening. Of course, socialising with other students is inevitable bringing their friends as well.

The space therefore becomes not only a roof garden but a catalyst towards a cultural shift that can have a real impact on the way students live and learn in a more balanced manner. We hope that our project can provide a re-invigorating space for students and staff to utilize. A space that can help inspire them to make the changes they need to feel the best they can.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 17:12
Group 22 / NEWTOPIA
Lucy Hannah W
WHY SO MANY DIAGRAMS?

In 1898, an idealist called Ebenezer Howard published ‘To-morrow: a Peaceful Path to Real Reform’ which explained a socio-economic theory which harmonised the advantages from living in both the town and country, born from a time where rapid industrialisation was causing the overcrowding and pollutant of cities. This book was the birth of the Garden City. To accompany it, he drew a series of diagrams to visually explain this revolutionary concept, the most famous of these being no.1 ’The Three Magnets’.

From here, the diagrams became so significant in the field as it was a means of communication, the diagram in practice then was used to illustrate essential public information with clear legibility and was fundamental in the planning of the post-war New Towns. They were used from concept all the way through to detailed design, illustrating ideas, techniques and options through colourful graphic illustrations.

It is through the diagram that the case studies within this project were explored, taking inspiration from those towns. The diagrams used in this work will be the main focal point of the gallery along with the posters and models created. They are colourful and visually appealing, allowing the audience to understand the findings from these investigations.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 17:10
Group 17 / CARBON HOUSING RETROFIT
Iat Hei C
Why Zero Carbon House Retrofit and what impact can it bring?

Manchester has committed to the following:
- Becoming a zero carbon city by 2038 at the latest
- Emitting only 15 million tonnes of CO2 during 2018-2100 (‘carbon budget’) - Reduce emissions by at least 13% year on year - Housing will need to play a part in achieving this goal.
-Thousands of retrofits will be required every year in order to achieve this goal.
- Around 61,000 retrofits will be required in Greater Manchester year on year, averaging at reducing heat loss by 57%.

Improving the energy efficiency and comfort of the Manchester’s existing housing stock can combat fuel poverty, reducing the amount of energy used and carbon emissions in Greater Manchester’s existing buildings.





Posted 23 Mar 2020 17:02
Group 10 / SUPPORTED EARTH
Maryam AI
WELL-BEING & STUDENTS

In a study made in 2018 that asked 38,000 University students, 9 out of 10 students said they struggled with feelings of anxiety. (Guardian,2019)
Anxiety is defined as a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease about something with an uncertain outcome. In the UK 8.2 million cases.

This showcases now more than ever it is important to put well-being in the centre of Universities agendas. We hope that in creating a space that caters to students and staff that we can help people feel less worried and more grounded in their day to day lives. When they take a break and remember to breathe this practice of mindfulness can help reduce feelings of unease. Hopefully our space can help create a relaxing environment that can help improve well-being for all to use regularly.

Source:
https://www.theguardian.com/education/2019/mar/05/levels-of-distress-and-illness-among-students-in-uk-alarmingly-high
https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/statistics/mental-health-statistics-anxiety
Posted 23 Mar 2020 17:00
Group 23 / DIGITAL DEN
Laura L
THE ROOM

The space that will undergo refurbishment sits on the third floor of an old industrial townhouse in Northern Quarter. This space is currently used as storage and will be transformed into a welcoming and flexible space which will contain facilities such as computers, therapy room and small kitchen.

One constraint is the existing façade and internal openings which have to stay in place and cannot be altered. The rooms and place of the partitions will have to be planned accordingly.

Another challenge is the size of the room, which is only 32sqm. In order to accommodate the programme, we will look into modular furniture which can be adjusted depending on how the space will be used, i.e. digital training or presentations.

Our aim is to brighten up the space and make it welcoming for both the users and the staff. It will be an accessible space which will hopefully unlock new potential for the young vulnerable people of Manchester.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 16:51
Group 06 / LET'S TALK: ZINE
Kieron O
SOCIAL VALUE

Nelson is in the top 10% for deprivation in the UK, businesses in the town centre are struggling in a traditional sense, but the area has retained a strong sense of history and identity. The community is also very diverse with over 30% from a BAMER background. The design proposals for the downstairs area of BBP office will aim to:

-create a town centre hub that is a space which enhances people’s individual and collective sense of wellbeing.
-create a community hub that offers a space to connect people from different backgrounds: through social activities, events, a space to talk, tackle cohesion and inequality.
–a space to explore alternative economies + community development in a town centre, revitalising the trends of the dying high-street.

Working alongside BBP on LET'S TALK ZINE is an exciting opportunity to be part of a real project that could potentially be realised in the future, which would have tangible benefits to the community of Nelson and the wider area of Pendle. We are excited by LET'S TALK ZINE, as the project provides a unique chance for the MSA team to work creatively and engage directly with local people (who are ultimately the end-user of the design proposal).
Posted 23 Mar 2020 16:47
Group 06 / LET'S TALK: ZINE
Kieron O
THE DESIGN BRIEF

The brief for the architectural design/concept element of LET'S TALK ZINE remains relatively loose. BBP are aiming to apply for Future High Streets funding (they are currently in the bidding process) which would entail a new masterplan for the shopping centre of Nelson. A key element in the re-visoning of Nelson town centre is the need for a radical rethinking of a town community centre/hub which could be delivered via the ground floor of BBP new office.

BBP are very open to different business ideas pertaining to what the downstairs space could be, or could contain - however the scheme should generate a small monetary value to assist with running costs, and the facilities should encourage community cohesion, not segregation. The design should not be focused on a retail offering. Initial ideas which have been discussed in meetings between MARCH students and the BBP team have been; an independent community run coffee shop, hireable workshop/events space, community florist, dance space - the opportunities are endless. We are excited to see what LET'S TALK ZINE can conceptualise for the space!
Posted 23 Mar 2020 16:46
Group 10 / SUPPORTED EARTH
Maryam AI
WELL-BEING & STUDENTS

Now more than ever it is important for universities to engage with the well-being of students throughout their education, we suggest the creation of spaces that cater to well-being to be created.

A study in 2018 regarding mental health of University students in the UK found that there is a rise in students facing psychological distress and mental illness, including high levels of anxiety, substance abuse and self-harm.

https://www.theguardian.com/education/2019/mar/05/levels-of-distress-and-illness-among-students-in-uk-alarmingly-high
Posted 23 Mar 2020 16:45
Group 19 / TOWN HALL IN THE MAKING
Louise R
The interactive workshops we will be preparing will be targeting young children between five and eleven years old (mostly primary school students): we need to adapt our workshop session plan and our teaching school to this young audience. To help us prepare as best as possible, we have requested the help of the STEM Ambassadors of the Science and Industry Museum of Manchester. They have experience in a STEM field and volunteer at the museum in order to convey to the younger generation their enthusiasm for their work. Therefore, in addition to being passionate in a STEM field, they are also able to spark interest in children, which is what we aim to do with the interactive workshops! During a forty-five-minute session with the ambassadors, we will be able to learn and ask questions about how to best engage and captivate the children during a hands-on workshop. Everything we will have learned during our interaction with the ambassadors will then help us to draw up an appropriate session plan for the workshops, and to adapt our language and attitudes towards the children. The aim is to give these children the best experience possible in learning about architecture, and how it combines, in this case, with civic life.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 16:28
Group 19 / TOWN HALL IN THE MAKING
Louise R
As people’s social lives evolve, opportunities to go to Town Hall decrease and people start to disconnect from it. But it still plays an important role in our civic lives! The aim of the Town Hall in the Making project is to strengthen the connection between the people of Greater Manchester and the Town Hall and to promote it as a place of social interaction, for children and adults alike. What better way to do this than with a hands-on and artistic approach, when all generations can interact and learn together of the Mancunians’ architectural and social heritage. While the Town Hall is closed for renovation, it is the best way to discover it and understand what it means to a town. With this hands-on approach, we bring the Town Hall directly to the people.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 16:28
Group 24 / HOW WOMEN BUILD
Quadri SA
Week 2

Week 2 will focus on the fabrication of the winning proposal. So, for this we’re looking for team players with an interest in building and fabricating. The project has a quick turnaround, so we need enthusiastic people with a passion for design. As well as designing these exhibition stands, we will also be creating super graphic banners to hang through the space, as well as curate the exhibition space/layout. We are hoping to connect with and visit local fabricators, makers and creators, to help inspire you guys and enrich the design process!
Posted 23 Mar 2020 16:19
Group 18 / YOUTH CENTRE 422
Jack C
For the final week the team will begin to develop a final design. During the start of the week we will give you a refresher course on Sketchup. Directly after this each team will produce a set of finalised plans and visualisations that will be presented to Stuart and the other collaborators at the close of the week.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 16:15
Group 18 / YOUTH CENTRE 422
Alexander H
Within this week the team will become acquainted with each other and the client. The start of the week will include a site visit to Longsight Youth centre where everyone will get to know the building and what it is expected from it.

We will then begin to develop some ideas with the help of 5Plus architects and their interior designers.

To finish the week we will give you some expertise on AutoCad followed by a brief presentation to the client Stuart, from Manchester Vineyard.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 16:11
Group 24 / HOW WOMEN BUILD
Martha Daisy Mead H
FEMINIST FURNITURE FIGURES: KAZUYO SEJIMA

We have identified three female furniture makers for our three groups to research, and hopefully be inspired by. Each of these women has created incredible furniture and each of them can teach us a lot about being feminist makers.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 16:10
Group 06 / LET'S TALK: ZINE
Kieron O
RISOGRAPH PRINTING WORKSHOP

Risograph printing facilities are available within The Bookbinding Workshop, located on the ground floor of Chatham Building (MMU). Inductions are required before the facilities can be used. We have arranged for the entire group to be inducted onto the printers - allowing for the final printing of our zine, and for use in future university projects.

Risograph is a high-speed digital printing system manufactured by the Riso Kagaku Corporation and designed mainly for high-volume photocopying and printing. The original material is scanned through the machine and a master is created, by means of tiny heat spots on a thermal plate burning voids (corresponding to image areas) in a master sheet. This master is then wrapped around a drum and ink is forced through the voids in the master. The paper runs flat through the machine while the drum rotates at high speed to create each image on the paper.

MMU currently offer 6 different inks that can be layered up if necessary. The machines are capable of printing on various types of paper.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 16:08
Group 06 / LET'S TALK: ZINE
Kieron O
GROUP VISIT: THE CIRCLE AND THE SQUARE EXHIBITION AT WHITWORTH ART GALLERY

During the course of EVENTS week, 'The Circle and The Square' will exhibit at Whitworth Art Gallery, returning to the UK after an international tour. The video installation was realised over the course of two years through a collaboration of local organisations in Pendle; including both In-Situ and BBP both. (Full team: In-Situ, The Free Spiritual Centre, Building Bridges Pendle and Brierfield Action in the Community—working with artist Suzanne Lacy).

In the video installation, artist Suzanne Lacy explores the demise of the textile industry as an economic and social driver in the North West of England and the resulting separation of South Asian-heritage and white communities who used to work together in the vast mills there. This localized critical inquiry represents a much needed national conversation on race, work, and capitalism, captured in the epic spaces of one such mill that stands as a symbolic remnant of the globalized trade in skills, commodities and people that continues to resonate, with seismic repercussions, across the world.

The Circle and the Square was a three-day performance in September 2016 when the Brierfield Mill, sitting in disrepair since its closure, was once again open to the community. Volunteers led tours of the mill, interviewed residents on the past and future of the region, organized a mill-workers’ reunion, and other events. The project culminated in a day-long performance with Dhikr chanting, Shape Note singing, and a dinner for 500 residents.

These type of events are indicative of the work BBP engage in, and the future aspirations for the community hub. We will visit Whitworth Art Gallery as a group to watch the film, and further understand the collaborator and community we are working alongside.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 16:08
Group 31 / RISING ARCHITECTS
Andrea Gabriela N
Rising Architects – Initial Ideas

The High School will join the Events on the 05/05/2020 to run a pilot of the course design for The Smallpeice Trust. The high school students will be split into 5 teams joined by 2 BArch Students and 1 March student to start the Design & Build Competition. With the MA and BA students help (precedents, architectural theories including materials, structure and scale), each team will have a day and a half to design a pavilion in the All Saints Park, producing a series of 2D drawings of their concepts, site analysis and 3D digital and physical models. At the end of the course, the best project will be elected and win a small prize.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 15:57
Group 20 / REVITALISING THE TOWN HALL
Junfu X
DESIGNING SKILLS

In addition to drawing skills, in our group you can also learn five common design methods and ideas we have teased out. These methods will help you to think more effectively and scientifically about the concepts of future design assignments, and also help you better understand the design works of others. Different design methods are suitable for different people, we hope that each of you can find the most suitable design method for you after our workshop.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 15:33
Group 24 / HOW WOMEN BUILD
Freya CW
Easy Peel are a local creative design studio based in Manchester, specialising in product, graphics, exhibitions, installations and art direction.

As part of our ‘How Women Build: Exhibition’ event, we will be making a site visit to their studio based in Mayfield, Manchester. There they will be able to talk us through their creative process, story and values as a collaborative and experimental studio and show us tools, techniques and materials to inspire our designs for the exhibition stands.

To find out more about them before our visit, take a look at their website!

https://www.easypeelstudio.com/work


[all images from: https://www.easypeelstudio.com/ ]
Posted 23 Mar 2020 15:32
Group 20 / REVITALISING THE TOWN HALL
Junfu X
HAND DRAWING SKILLS

Different types of drawings will have different types of expression methods. Our workshop will mainly teach you how to use hand drawing to quickly express your concept generation, analysis diagrams and sketches of scene effects. We will not only teach you to make the images more expressive of design elements, but also teach you how to make the images vivid, lovely and attractive. Considering that different BA students may have different aesthetic and painting preferences, we will try to show as many painting styles as possible to meet the painting habits of different students.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 15:32
Group 20 / REVITALISING THE TOWN HALL
Junfu X
HAND DRAWING TOOLS

Hand drawing can be regarded as an important way to advance your designing process. It expresses your ideas quickly and effectively, and it allows you to review your design during the drawing process as well. In this workshop, we will not only teach you how to create an artwork by hand, but also teach you how to use multiple methods to express as much information as possible on one drawing. Therefore, we will encourage you to use a variety of painting tools and media, such as pencil sketch, watercolour, pen drawing, digital painting created by iPad, Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, etc., and we will also teach you how to combine these painting tools to create a composite presentation on your drawing. In a sense, these comprehensive expression media and creative processes enable you to get more design motivation and inspiration. Thus, I hope you will enjoy the process in our workshop.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 15:31
Group 03 / WOAH - POD
Sandra Ioana R
People who are on the streets often tell us that they feel ‘invisible’. Most of the people don’t acknowledge the fact that these homeless people were in the same situation as other people who had a home, a family and a shelter to rest at night. While the acknowledge that they don’t pay attention to the people most needed for the rest of the world.

We need a way to communicate with other people with different ways. One way is to give them ‘signs’ by giving other people to consider what these are going through. Another way is to show them by design that these people are suffering daily and they are based on things that make them ‘happy’, like alcohol and stealing, which are inappropriate actions.

These are some solutions that we can make aware ordinary people with ordinary life to look people with extraordinary negative life. It’s a way where people can really pay attention to them and offer them help which they are going to be glad to give.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 15:17
Group 04 / CHORLTON RE-USE
Charlotte DM
SOCIAL IMPACT

Our main focus is to consider the social impact of the project. Chorlton Park is one of the main focal points for the town's social activities, therefore, to understand how people use the park as well as how people will react, connect and collaborate together within and around the spaces was a key part to understanding the value of their community and how our project will play a part.

The idea of 'connecting two halves' is about connecting the different demographics in Chorlton relating to the more affluent community and the poorer community.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 15:09
Group 08 / LET'S PLAY
Flora T
Skills Development

Throughout our Events project, we are looking at curating and enhancing some of the necessary skills to help us become the aspiring future architects we aim to be. A variation of software skills will be used to produce our outputs, such as posters, videos and publications, which gives us an opportunity to learn and build on these skills:

1. Video Making
2. Group work
3. Model making
4. Conceptual design
5. Graphic Visualisation
Posted 23 Mar 2020 15:08
Group 08 / LET'S PLAY
Flora T
Interim Review

On 6th May 2020 (Wednesday), we will be inviting our collaborator, Laura in to join us for an interim review. We will each present our group proposals to everyone, as well as Laura.

This will be a crucial moment for us to do any finishing touches to our design in order to satisfy our collaborators. We value our collaborator's comments and try to take them into consideration throughout the design process.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 15:08
Group 08 / LET'S PLAY
Flora T
How Do We Play?

‘Play’ is the core element in our event team. We will explore play by always questioning what play is, how we play, how we record play, how we involve play in design process, and finally how we deliver play as a finish product.

Hence, during our event, we will go to Heaton Park and Ostrich Park to experience what is play and how we play. We will be recording videos during the play to record it and implement the element in our design process.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 15:07
Group 08 / LET'S PLAY
Flora T
Park Tour Day 2

We will be splitting up into 2 groups, in which each group will be visiting 1 of the 2 playgrounds in local parks in Manchester - Heaton Park and Ostrich Park. Our aim of this site visit is to investigate what works successfully and what doesn't in each of the play areas, and to come back as a team to present our findings.

Heaton Park's recent addition of a new wooden adventure playground is 1 of the 2 playgrounds we plan to visit. The concept of the Wild Woodland Play Space is to reconnect children with nature through play and the area will feature everything from bridges and tunnels to a treetop nest. While incorporating features of a traditional playground, such as swings and slides, the new area will take a more natural, wild approach, using bespoke timber rather than metal, and including playful planting and grassy mounds.

Ostrich Park is a small park in Prestwich, near Heaton Park, consisting of simple playground equipment. Its last recent installation was about 4 years ago, and there are lots of space for children to run around and be silly.

As Heaton Park is much bigger than Ostrich Park, more investment has been put into the park and its playgrounds.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 15:07
Group 08 / LET'S PLAY
Flora T
Park Tour Day 1

We will be visiting Beech Road Park as a team together with the BA's to have a deeper understanding of the site. Having spoken to Laura in the earlier meetings, Chorlton Park was a lot more popular despite its close proximity to Beech Road Park. We decided it would be a good idea to visit Chorlton Park as well to see what makes it more successful than Beech Road Park's play area within the same community.

Chorlton Park
Opened in 1928, Cholton Park is situated less than four miles from the city centre and attracts over 30,000 visitors a year. Recent improvements include the installation of new furniture and completion of a multi-function area which will serve tennis clubs and players. Chorlton Park has been invaluable in ensuring that the whole community enjoys the park's excellent facilities which include: Bowls Pavilion and enclosed Bowling Green, Children's Playground for Junior and Under 5s, Basketball Court, 5 a-side Football Areas, Junior Pitches and a dog free zone.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 15:06
Group 04 / CHORLTON RE-USE
Thandokazi Vuyokazi Z
CHORLTON PARK HISTORY

Chorton Park is a family park with many facilities to meet the needs of every person who visits. The park has been open since 1928 and attracts over 30,000 visitors a year. The park prides itself on its' community links, encouraging racial and cultural unity as well as a platform for performances by dancers and musicians.
Horse races are said to have been held at the park in the 16th Century. The park is now known as the largest municipal park in Chorlton.

Facilities include:
-Bowls pavilion
-Enclosed bowling green
- Children's playground
-Basketball court
-Football pitch
-Dog free zone

Posted 23 Mar 2020 14:56
Group 11 / HUMAN NARRATIVE
Lorenzo LMZ
During the second week, we will put in action what we have learnt from the past few days. Day 4 focuses on writing and drawing the Nightsafe’s stories. Day 5 aims to produce a second draft of all the content previously produced. Day 6 is based on social media and how to address different communication techniques. Day 7 completes our event with the design of a publication that brings all our work together.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 14:49
Group 26 / READY SHEDDY GO
Harry W
Storage solutions in Small Spaces

How do you fit a lot of tools/equipment into a small space without clutter and creating mess? What other architectures can we look at to help create an efficient use of space.

Micro Architecture

‘Sustainability, cost-efficiency and space are just some of the factors driving an international renaissance in pocket-sized architecture that’s big on expression and style.’ (Lutyens, 2015). Micro Architecture is a concept that is becoming more popular. With today’s increasing land prices and reduced space in cities, there is a much greater drive towards space saving to make the most out of the building. Architecture at this scale crosses over into product design, to create solutions for the smallest of spaces.

Many small/micro architectures also sit within quite extreme climates, such as the desert, which enables a further level of complexity and exploration to be undertaken. Designers not only have to think about how to create intricate, clever spaces internally but also how to deal with weather by providing clever solutions (such as water harvesting).

Small Architecture can come in many different shapes and sizes. These all play a very different role within the built environment. Examples include;
- Pavilions: These tend to be temporary structures and provide a specific use
- Shipping Containers: Becoming more widely used today to create a range of different spaces, from housing to restaurants and shops.
- Bespoke homes: Usually quite exploratory in terms of form, small homes are becoming ever more popular.

This concept of small spaces and space saving ideas can be applied to this Gardeners Tool Shed. The shed will need to accommodate a range of different tools and be able to flex to be used for different activities. It would therefore be useful to explore different ways in which space can be saved. The intention is to create such solutions through the ingenious ways of storing items to allow free and uncluttered space for the gardeners to use. Examples of this could be under floor storage units to allow large tools such as rakes and spades.

If you are interested in small spaces and small Architecture, please take a look at ‘Small Architecture by Philip Jodidio, 2014.

Also Check out the link below for some interesting SHEDspiration!
https://www.architonic.com/en/story/dominic-lutyens-less-is-more-bigging-up-micro-architecture/7001120

Posted 23 Mar 2020 14:44
Group 26 / READY SHEDDY GO
Henry George B
How we met the Social Value Brief

Since our project’s inception, we have strived to maximise the positive social impact the intervention on Beech Road park will have to the local people living in Chorlton. Our aim was to consider the wider scope, how this project can have a positive effect on the gardeners, the committee and the extended community of Chorlton. We have met the social value brief in a number of ways:

- Communication; during the preparation phase for our event we have been in constant communication with our main collaborator, Laura, to ensure that our ideas and intentions fully correlate with the Friends of Beech Road Park Community committee.

- Formulating a brief in conjunction with our collaborator; we devised a brief that reflect the ideas and aspirations of our collaborators, the tool shed brief is a culmination of the needs and wants of the local gardening community of Chorlton, and is specifically designed to promote a sense of ownership for local residents. The brief encourages skill sharing and team work that should result in a strong collaboration with the community.

- Investigating local organisations; our group will be making a visit to Hulme community garden centre (HCGC), to educate one and other on the practice of gardening and it’s importance in the wider community.

- Committee involvement; by engaging the committee into the design development process, we are directly increasing the social value of the project, as the form and function of the shed is tailored towards the people who will use it the most. The head gardener, Jo, will be present at committee crits.

- Hosting an exhibition; the final output for the ‘Ready Sheddy Go’ project is an exhibition of works at the Lead Station in Chorlton, promoting social interaction between local residents, extending an open invite to the wider public, integrating the various communities of gardeners, families and students; creating a hive of social cultivation.

- Boosting younger generation’s skillsets; the project invests in younger people, enhancing their skills with a varied mix of activities and inter-personnel tasks such as presenting and teamworking.

- A community attractor; our proposal for a garden shed is focused on bringing the local community of Chorlton together, enriching the social connections between the people of Chorlton and getting them involved with gardening, advertising a new hobby that promotes wellbeing and vitality.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 14:38
Group 03 / WOAH - POD
Sandra Ioana R
CORNERSTONE
1. CORNERSTONE IS PART OF CARITAS DIOCESE OF SALFORD.
2. IT DEDICATES TO HELPING YOUNG PEOPLE AND FAMILIES.
3. THEY AIM AT PROVIDE A SERVICE THAT ENHANCES THEIR QUALIT OF LIFE
4. THEY BRING TOGETHER PEOPLE FROM ALL BACKGROUNDS.
5. THEY WELCOMES PEOPLE FROM ALL BACKGROUNDS AND OPERATES A POLICY OF NON-DISCRIMINATION.


SHELTER
1. SHELTER GIVES SUPPORT & LEGAL SERVICES TO HOMELESS.
2. THEY PROVIDE FACE TO FACE SERVICES FOR HELP.
3. THEY ARE PROVIDING EMERGENCY HELPLINE OPENS 365 DAYS A YEAR TO SUPPORT WHO FACE HOUSING CRISIS.
4. THEY PROVIDE ONLINE SUPPORT FOR EXPERT INFORMATION.
5. THEY ALSO PROVIDE FREE LEGAL ADVICES AND ATTEND COURT TO HELP PEOPLE WHO HAVE LOST THEIR HOMES.


CITIZEN’S ADVICE
1. CITIZEN’S PROVIDE CONSULTATION SERVICE FOR HOMLESS.
2. THEY DO NOT MAKE DECISION FOR CLIENT, BUT ENCOURAGE THEM TO MAKE THEIR OWN DECISIONS.
3. THEY CAN HELP IN HOMELESSNESS.
4. THEY HELPS WHEN THERE IS SERIOUS HOUSING DISREPAIR WITH RISK TO HEALTH
5. THEY ALSO HELPS AGAINST ANTI SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR.


CENTREPOINT
1. UK’S LEADING YOUTH HOMELESSNESS CHARITY.
2. NOW THEY ARE SPECIFICLY TARGETING THE DIFFICULT SITUATION CAUSED BY CORONAVIRUS.
3. THEY AIM AT HELPING VULNERABLE YOUNG PEOPLE.
4. HOMELESS PEOPLE OFTEN FACE RISK OF SAFETY WHEN THEY SLEEP IN THE STREET OR ON A BUS, FACING PHYSICAL AND MENTAL BREAKDOWN. CENTREPOINT PROVIDE HEALTH SUPPORT & ACCOMODATION FOR THEM TO GET A JOB.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 14:37
Group 24 / HOW WOMEN BUILD
Quadri SA
Week 1

Our event is a live project in collaboration with this conference. Our brief is to design and build 12 collapsible exhibition stands to display artefacts and information relating to 12 inspirational women. Week 1 will focus on the design of these stands through a competition. The group will split into smaller teams and each team will be given a feminist figurehead to inspire and direct their design. Each team will be presenting their ideas through models and drawings to a panel of judges at the end of week 1.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 14:24
Group 24 / HOW WOMEN BUILD
Zohir F
What is Feminism? And why is it important?
Posted 23 Mar 2020 14:21
Group 10 / SUPPORTED EARTH
Jasmine R
INSPIRATION:

Lynn, our collaborator, was inspired by the way that roof terraces are used in Japan. All space is utilised and the roofs of buildings become gardens.

The roof gardens are calming and relaxing spaces to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life. They give much needed respite to the users. They also create places to meet friends and socialise outdoors.

Our site, the terrace of Chatham building, has the potential to create a similar atmosphere and our project will be one step closer towards this goal.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 13:55
Group 08 / LET'S PLAY
Flora T
Types of Play

1. Cooperative play
Here we can see the beginning of teamwork. Children will play with others for a common purpose. This helps to develop interacting, socialising and communicating skills in young children.

2. Unoccupied play
It’s the most basic type of play: Children are completely free to think, move, and imagine. This allows them to freely develop their creativity and imagination.

3. Parallel play
Learning to play is learning how to relate to others. In that sense, parallel play is teaching children how to connect with others.

4. Onlooker play
This is when children observe the play of other children, while not actually playing themselves. So much of this play stage is inactive, but it’s still significant. The ability to play with other kids is crucial to getting along in school and beyond.

5. Solitary play
This is when children play alone, with little to no reference to what other kids or adults are doing. Starting to encourage being comfortable with themselves young will develop the ability to be content with their own discovery will serve them well throughout life.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 13:52
Group 08 / LET'S PLAY
Flora T
4 Important Design Considerations

1. Design different types of play
A good playground challenges and promotes children’s growth by providing opportunities for children to engage in multiple different types of play. We must consider how we can accommodate different types of play and ways for children to use their bodies and minds and interact with the environment: Active play, Sensory play, Creative play, Imaginative play, Social play and Reflective play.

2. Secrets and surprises
Children are finely attuned to the small wonders of the world. For them, the magic of a playground sometimes lies more in the little details than it does in the structures and big elements. Throughout our design, we should add in little surprises that can be discovered whilst playing, such as secret hiding places, interesting textures, handles and levers, and peep holes.

3. Consider flow and usability
Children in a natural state of play do not move in straight lines. Having a playground that “flows” well involves having all the components of the playground well-connected. Good “flow” will give the child different directions to explore each time they step into the play space and will help avoid traffic jams on the playground.

4. Work with nature
The best playground is the one nature provided. Tree limbs are perfect for climbing and swinging on and river rocks make the best stepping stones. The ultimate sandbox is a big stretch of beach and a handful of shells. We should incorporate nature into our design as much as possible by adding gardens, trees, flowers, boulders, stumps, and logs.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 13:40
Group 12 / THE RIGHT SPACE
Haocheng Z
Helping to make UK schools safe, inspiring places to learn

Through our Rights Respecting Schools Award, we work with schools in the UK to create environments where children are respected, their talents are nurtured and they are able to thrive. By embedding these values in daily school life, we can give children the best chance to lead happy, healthy lives and to be responsible, active citizens.

Over 1.5 million children in the UK go to a Rights Respecting School and more than 4,500 schools up and down the country are working through the Award.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 13:33
Group 12 / THE RIGHT SPACE
Haocheng Z
We’re there for UK children throughout childhood

Life for children in the UK can be tough. Almost 4 million live in poverty, obesity and mental health problems are rising, and many experience violence, abuse and neglect. So, here in the UK, we’re putting our years of experience working for children around the world into practice.

We’re there throughout childhood, making sure that every child has the same chance to shine. We work with the hospitals where they are born, the schools where they learn and grow, and the communities that shape their lives.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 13:32
Group 12 / THE RIGHT SPACE
Haocheng Z
What makes the UNCRC so special?

The Convention has 54 articles that cover all aspects of a child’s life and set out the civil, political, economic, social and cultural rights that all children everywhere are entitled to. It also explains how adults and governments must work together to make sure all children can enjoy all their rights.

Every child has rights, whatever their ethnicity, gender, religion, language, abilities or any other status.

The Convention must be seen as a whole: all the rights are linked and no right is more important that another. The right to relax and play (Article 31) and the right to freedom of expression (Article 13) have equal importance as the right to be safe from violence (Article 19) and the right to education (Article 28).

We are the only organisation working for children recognised by the Convention.

The UNCRC is also the most widely ratified human rights treaty in the world – it’s even been accepted by non-state entities, such as the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA), a rebel movement in South Sudan. All UN member states except for the United States have ratified the Convention. The Convention came into force in the UK in 1992.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 13:31
Group 12 / THE RIGHT SPACE
Haocheng Z
What is the UNCRC?

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, or UNCRC, is the basis of all of Unicef’s work. It is the most complete statement of children’s rights ever produced and is the most widely-ratified international human rights treaty in history.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 13:30
Group 08 / LET'S PLAY
Flora T
Invitation to Playground Suppliers

Creative play and Pentagon play are the representative suppliers that we included in our guest speakers invitation list.

Creative play have been designing, manufacturing and installing high-quality playground equipment in a variety of spaces around UK since 1991. The company have been established for more than 25 years, and provided their services to more than 10,000 clients. Their clients include schools, nurseries, holiday parks, parish council, pub/restaurants, and local authorities.

Pentagon play has been inspiring learning through play since 1998 and are specialists in designing, manufacturing and installation of school and nursery playground equipment. They focus on outdoor play, innovation, a sharp attention to detail and trusted relationships for their practice. Their aim is to create stimulating and challenging environments for children that contribute towards key areas of the curriculum.

Let’s play believes that these two suppliers of playground equipment can provide our team with the technical knowledge in designing playground and inspire us with their amazing projects and experience.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 13:23
Group 08 / LET'S PLAY
Flora T
Why Is Play Important?

Play allows children to use their creativity while developing their imagination, dexterity, and physical, cognitive, and emotional strength. Play is important to healthy brain development. It is through play that children at a very early age engage and interact in the world around them.

Research shows that play:

1. allows children to build their confidence as they grow up.
2. teaches children about caring for other and the environment.
3. helps them develop social skills, language and communication when they play with other children.
4. helps children develop physical skills.
5. makes them feel loved, happy and safe.
6. allows them to be creative with their imaginations.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 13:20
Group 04 / CHORLTON RE-USE
Motunrayo Oluwatunmininu S
THE BRIEF

Our Brief for the project aims to:
1. Raise awareness through community engagement and social media in order to provide a platform for future crowdfunding
2. To propose a conceptual design to support our awareness campaign which takes into consideration:
- A Green Roof
- Spatial Layout
- Facade Art
3. We also wish to conduct a Site Analysis in order to measure the footfall count.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 13:18
Group 08 / LET'S PLAY
Flora T
Introducing Our Guest Speaker!

We are honoured to welcome Carma Masson to speak to us about the different types of play and some of the playful projects she has done.

She is a qualified architect and is currently running a design studio called Playground Design Studio. It is a young multidisciplinary design studio based in Manchester focused on creating playful, engaging and memorable spaces and places for people. The key to their work is a strong narrative and bold use of shape and colour. More information can be found at https://playgrounddesignstudio.com/

Carma has worked for various award-winning architecture, interior and multidisciplinary design practices, and think tanks, in London, Manchester and Kent, including aberrant architecture; the Klassnik Corporation; Office S+M; WHAT_architecture and Publica.

Alongside her work in practice, Carma is also teaching at MSA, MMU and Sheffield Hallam University. She studied at Sheffield University, Canterbury School of Architecture (where she graduated with Distinction) and The CASS, London Metropolitan University.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 13:14
Group 08 / LET'S PLAY
Flora T
Week 2

Week 2 will be more intense. We will continue working on the final competition sheets, as well as begin with our publication.

The Let’s Play team will continue to finish the final competition sheets with the final 3D visuals, GA drawings and diagrams to support proposed design. By the middle of the week, our collaborator, Laura Sanderson will be joining our interim presentation. Each group will be given 10 minutes to present their sheets and ideas to Laura, critical feedback will be given to each group for further iterations of their proposal. The team will have a chance to amend and finalise the competition sheet accordingly to Laura’s comments and feedback.

On our final day, we will set up our exhibition, presenting our work to the community and friends of Beech Road park. A winner will be picked on the day.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 13:14
Group 08 / LET'S PLAY
Flora T
Week 1

The first week is all understanding what ‘play’ is, and focus on initial design.

To document and explore our ‘playfulness’, we will first analyze the drawings provided by school children, to highlight key ideas of what children want, to see a playground from their point of view. Moving on, the Let’s Play team will spend time on our site, as well as other parks in the city. This is a chance to interact with the site and sketch. Travelling to several parks in Manchester allows us to experience the parks by ‘playing', and understand what is successful and unsuccessful in a play area. As we move into the week, a guest speaker, Carma Masson is joining us, who will present her architectural knowledge about playgrounds. This would be a valuable chance for us to share our ideas and ask Carma questions we might have.

Having in-depth understanding on what ‘play’ is, we will then begin our design competition. We will start our initial concepts by doing photocollages, massing models, and begin the final competition sheet. There will be a recap at the end of every day, which is a ‘pin up’ exercise to show the progress we have made for the day. We encourage teammates to speak up and share their comments, since it is always useful to have other’s opinion.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 13:12
Group 22 / NEWTOPIA
Abigail C
ANNOUNCEMENT: WORKSHOP

SAVE THE DATE: 4th of May

WHO? Malcolm Garrett
WHEN? 04.05.20
WHAT? Graphic Design Workshop

We are delighted to confirm that Malcolm Garrett will be joining us on the 4th of May to talk to us about graphic design and what tips, tricks and advice he can share with us for the layout of posters, leaflets and booklets for the exhibition. His expertise will be invaluable to all involved in the NEWTOPIA project.

Malcolm Garrett, creative director of the design group Images&Co, has a wide spectrum of graphic design expertise but especially in interaction and interface design. He studied graphic design at Manchester Polytechnic in the 70’s, where he established a career rooted in Manchester music and culture – from his record sleeves for Buzzocks and Magazine to the identity of Manchester’s home of digital content The Sharp Project. He is an Ambassador for Manchester School of Art, and co-founder of Design Manchester.

In 2000 he became the first interaction designer appointed by Royal Designer and was elected Master of the Faculty of Royal Designers for Industry from 2013-15. In 2015 he was one of the first ten designers inducted into the Design Week Hall of Fame, and in 2016 was names one of 50 Creative Leaders by Creative Review.


To take a sneak peek at his graphic design work, music, audio, video, writings and social media, please follow the link below:
https://malcolmgarrett.com/

Or take a look at his innovative consultancy and design practice focused on culture and identity in cities, organisations and public environments, please follow the link below:
https://images.co.uk/
Posted 23 Mar 2020 13:11
Group 08 / LET'S PLAY
Flora T
Output

Throughout the weeks, we will be doing the competition sheet for most of the time. We will record and document our interpretation of ‘play’, and explain our proposal for the Beech Road Park. The competition sheets will be displayed in our exhibition, the friends of Beech Road park and the community will be invited.

A publication will be completed by MA01 students, which documents the 2-weeks design process by the team. The publication will be distributed to visitors who are going to visit our exhibition.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 13:10
Group 04 / CHORLTON RE-USE
Yeside Anuoluwatobi S
WHITE HOUSE PROJECT TEAM MEETING

On Thursday 13th February we had a meeting with Jane Leach our collaborator and the White House Project Team. They are responsible for the White House building and the cabins that are situated in Chorlton Park.

We were able to see the cabins and review their structural and design capabilities. We had our meeting in the White House and gained an understanding of the importance of the building and how the cabins can contribute through community support and engagement.

The White House Project Team are an offshoot of the Friends of Chorlton Park group. They are a newly formed team and need our help raising awareness about this site and possible future uses of it. From this meeting, we were able to gain an understanding of how we can contribute to the project in having a social impact within the Chorlton community.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 13:07
Group 08 / LET'S PLAY
Flora T
Our first team meeting

In February, our team got together to discuss the session plan, risk assessment and poster design. We each had a role in the early stages of the project.

At this stage, we were keen on looking for guest speakers, especially an architect who has experience in designing playgrounds, as well as playground suppliers who would be able to run us through the safety guidances of designing a play area.

We also decided to look at visiting some amazing local playgrounds and some that are less successful, because we felt it was important for us to understand what works and what doesn't work.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 13:04
Group 08 / LET'S PLAY
Flora T
Why Are We Interested?

Public space is all around us, a vital part of everyday urban life such as the streets we pass through on the way to school or work, the places where children play, the local parks in which we enjoy sports, walk the dog and sit at lunchtime.

A high-quality public environment can have a significant impact on the economic life of urban centres big or small. Successful, thriving and prosperous communities are characterised by streets, parks and open spaces that are clean, safe and attractive.

Unfortunately, the play area in Beech Road Park consists of worn-out playing equipment, poor landscaping and are designed primarily to cater to the younger age children. Therefore, we will be redesigning and proposing innovative ideas and designs to be presented back to the collaborators at the end of our events project.

However, our proposals will go much further than just to the collaborators. Our proposals will be used in future, to aid The Friends of Beech Road Park Group to apply for public funding for the play area from the council. Our proposals will enable the councils to visualise how we could turn the existing park's play area into an exciting and age-friendly space for the community and its future.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 12:59
Group 18 / YOUTH CENTRE 422
Heston H
The existing building is made up of three floors. The idea is to divide the team equally over these floors to create a fully resolved design.

The basement will house the proposed offices, the ground floor the entrance space, cafe and teaching rooms, and the first floor will retain the sports hall and activity areas.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 12:52
Group 11 / HUMAN NARRATIVE
Alice Josefa B
During the first week we will learn some new skills and experiment with how to present Nightsafe's stories through social media. Day 1 introduces photography with a fun workshop. Day 2 focuses on transcribing interviews done by the masters students over Easter at Nightsafe. Day 3 has a small competition to find the best presentation method. And the week ends with a trip to Nightsafe in Blackburn where we can meet volunteers, staff and users of Nightsafe and hold our own craft event.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 12:52
Group 04 / CHORLTON RE-USE
Jamie B
MEET THE COLLABORATOR

i- Architect

Lead Architect – Jane Leach

i-architect is led by the experienced architect Jane leach. A green listed eco-refurbisher and a RIBA accredited Conservation Registrant, based in Chorlton-cum-hardy, south Manchester.
With years of experience managing projects from conceptual and through to design and construction of all scales and sizes. Her work spans across a wide range of sectors throughout architecture from residential to education, but more importantly specialising in working with local communities, ideal as our project proposes to work with the community of Chorlton.

Jane also has a personal connection to the park. Whilst jane works during the day, she has the help of her mother to look after her young son. At times they would visit the park to get out of the house. Unfortunately, Jane’s mother has underlying health problems and can only walk so far. Chorlton park is local and convenient for them but currently has no space to grab a drink or keep warm, resulting in Jane’s mother having to travel further to a park that does provide these facilities.

Overall, with the help of events and working with Jane Leach we can help design and provide a sheltered, warm and socialising space for the local community of Chorlton Park.

To gain a deeper understanding of the project and the help of the local community for Chorlton Park, visit the friends of Chorlton Park via their Facebook or Twitter pages following the links below:

https://twitter.com/fchorltonpark?lang=en

https://www.facebook.com/groups/151217108266536
Posted 23 Mar 2020 12:51
Group 05 / INCREDIBLE SHEDUCATION
Lok Yiu Ashley C
Construction Sequence

Let's get started!

The elements will be ready for assembling once they are cut in the right size. Looking forward to the construction on site with the team!
Posted 23 Mar 2020 12:50
Group 08 / LET'S PLAY
Flora T
Site Issues and Opportunities

Earlier in January, we met up with the Friends of Beech Road Park at the park for initial introductions and discussions of what they might be interested in seeing from our events project. We took the opportunity to have a look around the play area to see what could be improved.

A few things that we noticed on site, as well as pointed out by Laura, was that:

1. There were some broken equipment, especially the popular built-in trampolines on the ground, which could pose as a danger to children playing in the park.

2. There was a lack of facilities for parents, such as benches and socialising spaces while their children are playing.

3. The flooring in the play area was quite worn out from the lack of maintenance, which could also be dangerous for people running around there.

4. There wasn't a wide variety of play equipment that could cater for children of all ages, which then restricts and excludes children of certain ages.

We will be taking these points into consideration during our design process.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 12:47
Group 15 / RE:THINK
Bismah Z
REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT 2 : Bradford Stations Masterplan

A second redevelopment project which has been proposed is the masterplan for the 2 train station in Bradford which aims to create high quality station gateways for the city centre enhancing the cities connectivity and the visitor experience.

At present, Bradford City has 2 train stations; Bradford Interchange which is the main train station connecting Bradford to the wider cities located south and the second train station is Forster Square which has a few local lines connecting Bradford to towns such as Skipton and Ikley. Although the train stations are within close proximity of each other (roughly a 10 minute walk) they are just seen as ‘dead ends’ with no direct connection, making it rather difficult for commuters, residents and visitors of Bradford. Automatically, this is seen as the primary divider of the City Centre that has a huge impact on the disperse community.

The proposed masterplan for both stations which will be delivered as 2 separate projects in the upcoming years. The overall vision for both train stations will include;
- Improving the visibility and connectivity of the stations within the wider city centre.
- Provide better connectivity between the stations using different transport modes (train, bus, tram etc…)
- Strategic approach to delivery of wayfinding
- Identify opportunities for new development within the adjoining the stations (including commercial and community provision)

In addition to this, Bradford City Council are pushing for the Northern Powerhouse Rail (HS3) – a fast line between Bradford, Leeds, Manchester and Liverpool which could be a significant opportunity for the city creating a large amount of job opportunities and attracting visitors.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 12:41
Group 24 / HOW WOMEN BUILD
Quadri SA
Our Events group is working in collaboration with the How Women Build Conference, supported by the Paul Mellon Centre for Studies in British Art and The Women’s History Network. The conference will bring a new, more detailed understanding of the recent history of the professionals of architecture, landscape architecture, planning, interior design and engineering, and rather than focusing individual designers, it will celebrate the female contribution in its many formats. The conference will be run alongside Helen Aston and Dr Luca Csepely-Knorr.

Helen Aston

Helen is experienced in practice, teaching and research. She has more recently set up PRAXXIS: a feminist architectural research collective. This has led to the launch of PRAXXIS, a feminist atelier in both BA3 and the M.Arch. It has three key aims... inspire//challenge // impact. PRAXXIS is an explicitly feminist teaching atelier aiming to stimulate a positive intersectional feminist debate within the MSA.

Website:
praxismsa.wixsite.com/architecture


Dr Luca Csepely-Knorr

Luca’s research is multidisciplinary in its approach. Her cross-disciplinary interest in the theory and history of urban open space design derives from her education in a variety of subjects. Her research described and compared the urban design principles of landscape architect and civic designers, most importantly Hungarian architect Bela Rerrich (1881–1932), who was a key figure in the Hungarian urban design theory of the 20th century and the first teacher of garden design at the Royal Horticultural School (Budapest).

Website:
msa-uk.academia.edu/LucaCsepelyKnorr
Posted 23 Mar 2020 12:37
Group 08 / LET'S PLAY
Flora T
Meet Our Mini Collaborators!

Alongside the Friends of Beech Road Park, we are also working indirectly with the younger generation of the Friends. We have sent out a plan of the site to children in the local primary schools for them to draw over, which will give us a collection of drawings and ideas of what the children want in their play area.

Through exploring a series of drawings by the primary school kids in the neighbourhood, we aim to interpret and integrate their ideas into revamping a new play area for them in the park.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 12:31
Group 08 / LET'S PLAY
Flora T
Introducing Our Site!

Our project is located in Beech Road Park, Chorlton. This quaint green space, bustling with families and friendly dogs, offers a children's play area and a multi-purpose games area. During the summer, the park also plays host to the Beech Road Festival.

The park has strong community links, with 'Friend's of Beech Road Park Chorlton' as the main community group that contributes to the management and upkeep of the park, as well as arranging exciting activities within the park.

The rectangular shape park is divided into two triangles, separated by the main pedestrian route. Let's Play will be working on the bottom triangle where currently the play area is located. Sadly, the play area consists of worn-out playing equipment, poor landscaping and designed primarily to cater to the younger age children.

We, together with our collaborator, 'Friend's of Beech Road Park'
thinks it's time to regenerate the play area into an exciting, eye-catching and fun space for the community.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 12:29
Group 10 / SUPPORTED EARTH
Katayha Marie G
FIELDEN CLEGG BRADLEY STUDIOS

Fielden Clegg Bradley Studios is an architectural practice with an international reputation for design quality, for pioneering environmental expertise and a progressive architectural approach.

FCB Studios designed the Manchester School of Art building (Benzie) in 2013 which was an extension to the existing Chatham building.

Designing highly visible vertical gallery space acts as a shop window providing a showcase for the School of Art to the University and the wider City.

"The aim of the building is to celebrate the commonalities of the various art and design disciplines and encourage students to work alongside each other and enjoy the crossover in an open, terraced hybrid environment, rather than working in the silos common to many art and design establishments" - FBC Studios
Posted 23 Mar 2020 12:25
Group 08 / LET'S PLAY
Flora T
Introducing Our Collaborator!

Friends of Beech Road Park is a dedicated local group in Chorlton that is passionate about their local park. The Friends Group actively contributes to the management and upkeep of their local park, as well as arranges activities ranging from frequent gardening events to annual arts festivals. The recent activities include obtaining an outdoor table tennis table, a Christmas Light Switch On and an 'Art in the Park' festival.

One of the Friends is our very own Laura Sanderson, who is a senior lecturer here at MSA. She will be acting as the main contact on behalf of the Friends of Beech Road Park, along with some of the other Friends as we work throughout the project.

The group consists of the local residents who spend a lot of time at the park and are excited to see how much fun we can bring into this project, and potentially to the park!

Follow them on Facebook to get involved:
https://www.facebook.com/BeechRoadPark/

Posted 23 Mar 2020 12:23
Group 14 / CENTRE STAGE
James R
The semi-realistic style – like that of watercolours, scaled back to an extent, but it is not a photorealistic form of art. Both virtual and real elements are combined in this style to enhance the looks of real-life 3D renderings.

These visualizations are used in creating an idealistic vision, suitable for an atmosphere. While creating contextual compositions and panoramic views, you can use this style.

Using the right mix of colour and contrast, you can alter the overall mood of the image. For example, certain designers desaturate certain iterations in order to create a feeling of tension. Others opt to stir up the feeling of brightness and astonishment by integrating vivid colours in their images, these qualities can be used to excite viewers with the over dramatic style but with this approach, is also important to ground the piece with context or otherwise it can be lost and end up looking like a sci-fir movie or dramatized piece of art.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 12:03
Group 14 / CENTRE STAGE
James R
Sketches - A Low-tech or combined approach between digital and analogue can provide an emotive and detailed approach to creating exciting visuals.

Using the layering of lines provides the visual with texture, shadows and movement. This allows the style to be more abstract and highlight key areas of a scheme through a narrative.

With the more artistic approach, sketches provide a different visual excitement to normal visualisations, with the look of complexity, and often recognised as time consuming pieces. They allow the creator to express a more individual or narrative side to a project, from the artistic style of the creator, highlighted elements, use of colour or textured shading and the medium they are created in, wherever it be pencil, fine liner or another medium.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 12:03
Group 14 / CENTRE STAGE
James R
Photo-real Computer Generated Imagery - Provides the ability to excite people with the placement of proposals within context.

Using natural lighting cues, shadowing and colouring, this style gives viewers the crux of what the design would be like within the context, to be lived in, or around.

However, as you cannot hide behind aesthetics, this is one of the most difficult styles to execute. If you go too far, you may end up with an almost sci-fi looking scene. 3D artists who can create this kind of image must have a mastery of materiality and human perception. Above all, mimicking how light moves in real life is key – and the ability to manipulate and render light takes years of experience.

However, when executed properly, the result is an architectural visualisation that shows a building as though it is already constructed.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 12:02
Group 14 / CENTRE STAGE
James R
Collaging - a low tech, sketched based approach, providing powerful and playful imagery when done correctly.

This style is a combination of images, renderings and sketches, making the visualisations more memorable. Enabling the visualisations to provide animation and texture using layers.

This style is more about creating the impression of an idea or an emotion, rather than giving an accurate rendering of the space. Its extreme style is achieved through aesthetic colour combinations, textures and use of space; works by the artist layering differing styles and techniques to create an overall narrative. This style captures more of a potential feeling of a place, rather than its architectural properties, and may lend itself more to conceptual buildings.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 12:01
Group 03 / WOAH - POD
Sandra Ioana R
1. manchester is the second city of 510,000 people .
2. it has an area of 115.6 km2.
3. there is around 130,000 houses in the city, 19000 of
them are empty.
4. IT IS at least £3 billion worth of properties are
unoccupied in the region.
5. The average value of a low use home in Manchester
is £135,058, WHICH IS 8% higher than the average
property value of £125,274.
6. campaigners are asking the council to build more
affordable social housing.
7. we are working with cornerstone on an used land
owned by the manchester city council, TO DEVELOP
AFFORDABLE, CHEAP AND RELIABLE HOUSING.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 11:40
Group 26 / READY SHEDDY GO
Henry George B
Crit with the Committee

Throughout our event for Friends of Beech Road Park, we intend to involve the community as much as possible, giving the locals a role in the development of the shed proposed for Beech road park. We want to hold a constructive, informal crit with the committee, allowing the community to be involved in the entire process, giving a sense of ownership back to the locals; maximising the social value of the project.

As a group, we decided to organise a session for the Friends of Beech Road Park committee to critique the design ideas and interventions being thought of during the first week of events. The session is scheduled to take place at the beginning of week 2, and the idea is to get some feedback on initial ideas, ready for developing them further during the second week. Any changes that are required can be filtered back into the production of the final booklet that will go on display for the exhibition.

The main committee members will be present; the Chair, the Treasurer and the Secretary, as well as the head gardener Jo and our collaborator Laura. Two members from Manchester City Council will also be attending; the Neighbourhood Engagement Officer and the Local Councillor, to provide our platform for communication with the council.

Hopefully, by involving the committee as much as we can, we can ensure that the proposal is as optimised as possible - for the people that care the most.
Posted 23 Mar 2020 11:37

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