Established in 1993 as Continuity in Architecture, a studio for research informed teaching, the atelier specialises in the sustainable adaptation of buildings, landscape and urban space within historic contexts. In 2023, the Atelier strengthened its expertise to include Landscape Architecture and became known as Continuity.

The Landscape Continuity atelier focuses upon the sustainable design of new or re-interpreted landscapes and public spaces within an urban setting and landscape beyond. Most importantly is the presence of nature in contrast to the transient lives of humans, who remain intrinsically connected to the land. Students are encouraged to assess the environment as artefacts and products of change, looking at all manifestations of life, to inform tailored solutions for preserving a place's landscape identity, while creating and enhancing these places that ensure its landscape endures.

This year’s design thesis project started with a focus on investigating urban and landscape forms understanding the natural, built, social and economic context of Todmorden. Through theory, policy and site analysis and investigating the heritage and landscape character of the town and surrounding landscape, the students derived foundational principles formulating an initial research question. Aims shifted toward an in-depth design development process, where the stated intentions were being tested out in the broader landscape in and around the immediate historic town. Resilience, adaptability and transformability were at the foundation of the project, and these were expressed through multiple iterative design studies and strategies of spatial and ecological character, leading to an informed, robust and rounded final position.

Finally, students focused on detailing with the emphasis being on producing a convincing design resolution with full integration of construction technologies and planting design. Previous manifestos and research were rigorously re-examined and brought to life, informing the viewer of not only workable solutions, but displaying each scheme’s creative and atmospheric qualities.