View into courtyard

The proposed project is a multi-generational live-in workers’ cooperative for those who are most at risk in the current capitalist housing model. Residents act as custodians of the building, allowing them to live there in exchange for the labour required to run the cooperative. The flexible scheme emphasises residents’ growth, which is achieved through gaining diverse skills from a variety of responsibilities. The flats are designed for short-term residency - a few months up to a couple of years - with a simple grid design to keep them cost-effective. Shared social spaces and a diverse community foster a friendly, communal atmosphere.

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View along deck

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View into flat

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Flat typologies

The flats are all variants of the base (cell) layout, with adaptations for different types of inhabitants, intended for short-term occupation. The typologies are assorted across the plan to create a diversity of tenants. The simple gridded layout allows for low cost but high-quality dual-aspect flats.

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Occupancy relationships

The variety of activities across the site create interdependencies and a very localised community.

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I am interested in the intersection of architectural practice with environmental and social justice. I believe that the architectural profession is currently out of step with the environmental crisis we are in and that remedying this is the primary challenge of our current generation. We must update our practices to value ecological and social sustainability as paramount, reflecting the impact that the built environment has on carbon emissions, material waste and social inequality. These challenges inform my design work and research, and set a direction for my future career.
This year in my projects and research I have explored ideas of shared living, material conservation and reuse, circular design and structural appropriation. I have also previously incorporated self-build principles and natural construction materials into my work.
I would like to state my support for the Pause or Pay Campaign, which calls for reimbursement of fees or the provision of additional resources (when it is safe to do so) for art students across the UK. Read the full manifesto at pauseorpayuk.org.