My approach to architecture and design focuses on the creation of interesting spatial experiences, in which sustainable and operational systems are enmeshed. I believe structural and functional forms can be celebrated, rather than hidden, helping create an exciting 3-dimensional volume that suits the users’ needs and minimises embodied and operational emissions. The story of a site is important to me, and integral to how I develop a project to obtain my final design.
‘Finding the Way’ is a community health and wellbeing centre, sculpted around the events of Stockport’s past and its transition from a non-human space to a human space. My proposal attempts to remember the industrial revolution but move forward toward a post human future where non-human actors are of equal importance. By rewilding habitat for local species to thrive and connecting the land back to the natural corridor that is the river Mersey, the scheme attempts to enmesh the human experience with that of non-humans, using natures proven healing benefits to create a space promoting physical and mental wellbeing, a break from the regular urban environment. To enhance this, an external route weaves through the structure and habitat giving users an exciting, relaxing, and comforting spatial experience without entering the building.
My proposal aims to provide a connection to the non-human environment, allowing people to remove themselves from modern day life and connect to nature within the urban landscape. Particularly in a post Covid society, it is important we take advantage of our free time and connect with nature and each other.
