Wednesday, 15 February 2012

Why I want to come to Manchester

Why I want to come to Manchester
Ingenuity, originality, self expression, these are just some areas of my personality I wish to develop further. Through the study of Architecture at a degree level I will endeavour to evolve these intriguing abilities as much as possible. I feel however the study of this captivating element at Manchester School of Architecture would significantly benefit me, more so than studying at alternate predeceasing universities. The innovative resources available and expertise teaching staff at the institution, I feel would allow me to fully express my passion for Architecture and potentially even develop it further.  I believe this specific course at this university will challenge my creative potential, culminating in the formulation of my own, authentic designs. During my multiple visits to this institution I acknowledged the high level of design integrated into the course, this is a particularly desirable characteristic to possess as I found at other predeceasing universities the empathises was too much orientated around the mathematical and engineering side. Conversely, I don’t just want to study architecture at Manchester due to its unique and innovative course structure. Manchester city demonstrates a verity of different and unique architectural styles from Victoria architecture to Deconstructivism. These innovative collaborations of architectural styles provide a very insightful, inspirational and aesthetically pleasing environment to study in.

Recent building visit

Recent building visit
One of architect Richard Rogers most successful and famous buildings, the innovative and aesthetically unique Lloyds building in the heart of the financial district in London, the unusual configuration is a result of its location within the irregular medieval street pattern. To maximise the usable space in the building, the practice banished the services to the perimeter. The building is twelve storeys to the north and steps down to six storeys to the south. The lower ground level situates the Lloyd' s restaurants, coffee areas, library, meeting rooms and reception area, while mechanical services, lifts, toilets, kitchens, fire stairs and lobbies are situated in distinct service towers, easily accessible for maintenance. This arrangement is what gives the building its unique and imperishable appearance. The vast amounts of stainless steel incorporated into the construction of the building further contribute to its industrial appearance and to its overall imperishable reputation.

Favourite architect

Favourite architect
find myself inspired by architect Richard Rogers work; his unique style of architecture expresses ingenuity, originality and coherence. Rogers is a British architect that utilises very controversial methods in order to make the buildings primarily use space much more effectively and efficiently. Rogers is perhaps best known for his work on the Pompidou Centre in Paris, the Lloyd's building and Millennium Dome both in London.

Work of architecture

Work of architecture
The Sagrada Família, a large Roman Catholic church in Barcelona, Spain, designed by Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. The church incorporates a gothic Architectural style, a style not frequently witnessed here in England. I am always curious to see how architectural styles differ, especially from country to country. I feel visiting the Sagrada Família would be a once in a life time experience, primarily because it demonstrates what innovative structures can be formulated without the aid of modern technology. The exquisite structure was constructed solely on a mans determination and passion.   

Observational studies

Observational studies

Observational study – Lindisfarne (Water colours)

Artistic abstract

Observational study

Observational drawing – (quick sketch)

Rock climbing - study of movement

Initial ideas for A2 graphics project- Design a sustainable monorail station for the city of Leeds

Initial ideas for A2 graphics project- Design a sustainable monorail station for the city of Leeds

CAD drawings




Fruit shoot bottle model and label



Study of the Lloyds building in London