AJ Student Prize 2023: University of Central Lancashire

About the Grenfell-Baines Institute of Architecture

Undergraduate

Phoenix Beardall-Tang

Course BSc (Hons) Architecture
Studio/unit brief Year 3 Design Studio
Project title Transcendence: A Spiritual Haven Connecting Life and Death

Project description This community centre is nestled on a topographic site with 3m drops at each contour. At its heart stands a church, clad in zinc and timber and adorned with exposed beams. A connection is forged between the community centre and neighbouring graveyard. A nature trail weaves through the plan, providing a sanctuary for contemplation and attracting local wildlife. Biophilic design principles have been embraced. A continuous central spine guides visitors through the community centre, linking spaces and levels. A meditation pool sits atop the rooms of the lowest contour and serves a dual purpose: water cooling and harvesting.

Tutor citation Phoenix’s attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the project. From the careful selection of materials to the thoughtful placement of elements, her design seamlessly integrates with the surrounding environment, enhancing the spiritual connection between community and cemetery. Ehab Kamel, Urun Kilic Engasa, Chris Lowry, Gerard Bareham

Postgraduate

Michelle Jesse

Course MArch
Studio/unit brief In der Nähe Berlin 3
Project title Identität (Identity)

Project description The studio explored the immediate neighbourhoods of the Spree between Bahnhof Friedrichstraße and Oberbaumbrücke with the objective of revealing contextual and cultural opportunities. The site is at Zimmerstraße in Berlin, where the Berlin Wall once stood, but envisioned to extend to all former Berlin Wall locations. The wall is inverted in purpose, to break the persisting bonds of segregation – in culture, diversity, heritage and social class. The methodology places an emphasis on giving individuals control over their surroundings, freedom to explore and capacity to generate comfort – all necessities that Berlin previously lacked.

Tutor citation The success of this project relates directly to original conversations, research and fieldwork accomplished while in Berlin. The translation of the research endeavour has informed an architecture that epitomises the ambition we promote on the course. Christopher Lowry