Review: NU Architecture Exhibition- a sustainable look at renovation, revitalisation and renewal

The Third Year architecture exhibition, held on the First of November, was a project the students have been working on for a number of weeks. After working my way round the eight exhibits, I was struck by the variety of ideas, as well as the innovation demonstrated by each member of the groups working as part of their team. The element of these projects that resonated the most with me was the idea of sustainability, which wove its way through the core of each project. 

Though all eight exhibits were fascinating, and presented ideas that were both cutting edge and carefully considered (a mixture that, in my opinion, is important for any exhibition), I have decided to review my two favourites. 

The first exhibition I visited was called Work in Progress, which sought to design architecture that is both contemporary, yet not isolated in time. They aimed to reimagine Jesmond Dene by adapting and re-using the structures of pre-existing buildings in order to create work spaces and shared facilities for creative communities. Their model of Jesmond Dene was incredibly impressive, and showed a very clear re-imagining of architecture, and how as a society we can reuse existing buildings from both a sustainable and design point of view. I was really impressed and taken by this idea, as it shows an innovative eye for sustainable design, and also poses a really difficult challenge. This group showed that architecturally, it is both possible and important to maintain the integrity of the previous design of buildings, whilst also adapting their spaces for modern use.

The second studio exhibit I visited was called House of Memories. This group’s aim was to create an approach towards sustainable architecture within a healthcare setting by constructing a multi-sensory architecture design for patients with dementia. They created a design that meets the needs of the planet, in terms of sustainability, whilst also creating a comfortable environment that has the potential to slow the progression of the disease.

I enjoyed walking around this very interactive exhibit, which used light, sound, tactility, and colour in very innovative and interesting ways. Sound effects such as birdsong and wind also added to the overall sensory experience of the visitor. When talking to one of the students on the project, she shared that their aim was to explore the potential for architectural design to replace pharmacy treatment. Their use of polycarbonate material, which is much more sustainable than regular plastic due to its ability to be fully recycled at the end of its life, was a refreshing step towards architectural design that opens up the conversation about sustainability in both a local and global context.

Overall, I really enjoyed this exciting and refreshing exhibition, and look forward to re-visiting the exhibits when they are showcased again next year.