STATEMENT

Studying architecture within the city of Manchester is an opportunity that I look forward to with great excitement for numerous reasons. After visiting the city for my recent A-level art project, I discovered the compelling variety of architectural styles that have emerged as well as remained, demonstrating a timeline of historical movements within the field. The complexity and reinvention process that the city has undergone fascinated me. Therefore, I perceive the city to be an ideal environment for an architecture student, as it provides the visual catalyst necessary to inspire and motivate. I believe that the course at MSA suits my skillset, allowing me to express and develop my creative skills through design projects, as well as addressing my passion for history and interest in social issues through the theoretical modules.

Within my A-level art project, I chose to analyse my local church, which was built almost 800 years ago in 1240 and is one of the largest and most significant in the region. From my research, I discovered that the structure was built during the triumph of the Gothic architectural style, characterised by vertical proportions, pointed arches, external buttressing, and asymmetry. Throughout my artwork I wanted to explore and capture my fascination for the intricacy of these features, as they often remain unappreciated.

Recently, I discovered the ongoing project of the 2016 ‘Smart City’, West of Moscow by Zaha Hadid architects. I have found particular interest in exploring this project in harmony with my current A-level history studies, in which I have analysed the nobilities persistent lack of interest in innovative and economic projects up until 1928. This has been a fascinating contrast to the ‘Smart City’ project, which embodies the pinnacle of modern architecture. In my belief, the project displays the power of architecture and the role it plays in migration and economics. The city has been designed to encourage the growth of a young and vibrant next generation, through its people-centric design. The architecture not only plans to serve the people but to springboard confidence and energy into their lives – an effect that I believe all modern architecture should aim to achieve.

The building I would love to experience in person is the ‘Zhongshuge bookstore’ in Chengdu, China. The design evolves around the concept of reflecting the landscape of the area into the indoor space, in the central area of the structure, the construction of the dam is integrated into the bookshelves.