The two students selected for the AJ Student Prize by the University of Manchester/Manchester Metropolitan University

Location Manchester • Courses BA (Hons) Architecture, MArch •  Head of school Kevin Singh •  Full-time tutors 58 •  Part-time tutors 80 •  Students 1100 •  Staff to student ratio 1:11

Course BA (Hons) Architecture Studio/unit brief Atelier Making Project title Adaptable networks in a post-Covid era Project description This project explores modular design, adaptability, subtraction, and connectivity post-Covid. Inspired by Matta-Clark’s Conical Intersect, subtraction is applied to architecture through voids. These subtractions are then cut up into their own node bricks that can be constructed by the public with wax and cement, bringing agency to the public through construction – the box form becomes a stage set for adaptation. This is developed into a high-rise within which occupants can subscribe to an allotted space, followed by an installation of a modular office. All floors are connected via a public ‘space tube’ lined with seating. The project essentially creates a series of hierarchies and systems that determine how its inhabitants work, live and socialise.

Tutor citation Tom’s work exemplifies a design approach in which exploratory and messy modes of design enquiry are truly persistent across all media and platforms, be they digital, virtual or materially located, at all stages of the design process. Vikram Kaushal

Spatialised Programme Source:Millie Evans

Course MArch Studio/unit brief Atelier Praxxis Project title The Waste Mill (2061) Project description The Waste Mill views the fashion industry as a catalyst for slowing down global consumption, rather than propelling it. This thesis is a speculation on emerging research into science that converts household waste into new fibres for fabrics using enzyme technology. Disused textile mills across the north of England present an opportunity to be repurposed as waste mills for this new factory typology and this project is in an abandoned 1861 cotton mill in Rochdale. In addition to being a working factory, the proposed mill is also a living archive and educational exhibition. Community members are key players in the day-to-day operation and building materials are constructed using household waste.

Tutor citation From an initial concept of the personal, political and potential, Millie took a strong climate crisis position to explore the hugely concerning issue of fast fashion. The project addresses a future set of proposals around new materials made of waste, new systems for community re-use and recycling, opportunities for emerging creatives and the re-use of abandoned buildings. Helen Iball

Tags AJ Student Prize University of Manchester

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