AJ Student Prize 2023: University of Lancaster

About the Lancaster School of Architecture

Location Lancaster | Courses BA (Hons) Architecture | Head of school Des Fagan/Alan Marsden | Full-time tutors 9 | Part-time tutors 6 | Students 130 | Staff to student ratio 1:12

Undergraduate

Charlotte Pugh

Course BA (Hons) Architecture
Studio/unit brief Learning from the Past, Preserving the Future
Project title The Marine Gateway 

Project description This masterplan takes a biologically dying waterfront site in the heart of the Lake District and invests in the future of marine biodiversity. The proposal aims to strengthen the accessibility of the site by adding a bridge to provide an alternative route to the site. The new access route will link up the existing but derelict lakeside train station line and restore it to boost transportation to Windermere. The Lake’s Marine Observatory is built as part of the bridge and anchored on Windermere’s bed. This new marine research centre provides an outlet to study Windermere’s marine biodiversity, while bringing 60 research jobs to the area. It also aims to link with its global partners to teach local communities about marine biodiversity through its retrofitted boathouse, which has become an outdoor auditorium. 

Tutor citation Charlotte’s project presents an innovative design proposal that creates a stronger connection between the two sides of the lake and embraces environmental and biodiversity challenges. Ana Rute Costa, Stephen Connah, Siobhain Graham