The Architects’ Journal Architecture News & Buildings
About the School of Architecture
Location Chelmsford | Courses BA/BSc (Hons) Architecture | Head of school Maria Vogiatzaki | Full-time tutors 4 | Part-time tutors 4 | Students 85 | Staff to student ratio 1:10
Undergraduate
Nicole Cook
Course BA (Hons) Architecture
Studio/unit brief Architectural Design Studio 4
Project title PREFORM. A Creative Learning Space for Architecture
Project description This proposal for a school of architecture ‘for the future’ in Chelmsford aims to revolutionise built environment education by integrating colour and creating innovative learning spaces. The design emphasises a fluid flow of colour to differentiate spaces within the city while encouraging its students to draw inspiration from the environment as they embark on their creative studies – identifying that, while practical know-how is essential, so is an innate ability to be creative. Therefore, the educational endeavour aims to provide a freedom to push boundaries and experiment. The school will be associated with specific colours that evoke desired emotions for the activities taking place within each building – intending to influence behaviour positively. As well as space for students to flourish, the school will serve the community with spaces including a theatre, library, café and exhibition area, encouraging cultural exchange and knowledge-sharing.
Tutor citation The project was selected because of its innovative and forward-thinking approach towards transforming architectural education. It aims to revolutionise traditional learning spaces by incorporating creativity and student experiences into the design process. Using colours as a key feature, the project strives to create active learning areas that foster student engagement and enhance their creativity. Carla Molinari