Ten design projects for Birmingham City University students

Dezeen School Shows: a creative children’s education center tackling the learning consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic is included in this Birmingham City University school show.

Also included is a hospital that repurposes disused farm buildings with a modular approach and a community center that uses immersive technologies and biophilic design to educate people about mental health.

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Institution: Birmingham City University
School: Birmingham School of Architecture and Design
Course: BA (Hons) Interior Architecture and Design
Guardians: Kathryn Jones, Tony Salmon, Andy Hilton, Josephine Bridges, Warren Mak, Alexandra King, Victoria Paterson Burke and Ashley Wilson

School Statement:

“The University of Birmingham’s Architecture and Interior Design program aims to empower graduates as proactive agents for positive change, with a passion for the creative industries, ready to carve out their own professional journeys, challenge convention and be able to thrive with confidence and integrity in constant middle. evolving landscapes.

“Our educational philosophy focuses on cultivating autonomous creators who are adept at making considered and informed design decisions.

“Equipped with the ability to work autonomously or collaboratively within diverse teams, they bring their unique perspectives and backgrounds to bear on meaningful and ethically relevant design challenges.

“Throughout their academic journey, students encounter a mix of design analytic research methodologies, cultural context discourses, exploratory principles of idea generation, critical communication tools and a range of practical principles of resolution, enabling them to take the lead in shaping their diverse and multifaceted career paths. .”

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The Hanging Gardens of Birmingham by Elsie Gribbon

“Birmingham Hanging Gardens is not only a place to be inspired by the nomadic spirit of street cuisine, but an allegory for the historical excitement of the circus built through sensory journeys, linked together and separated by the folds of baroque architecture and art.

“It is a celebration of the vertical subtleties of the baroque, the absurd and the bacchanalian, a space where diners become performers within their own circus and one that elicits a multi-sensory response for the individual actor.

“Influenced by chaos theory, the project was able to draw from a wealth of different backgrounds, philosophies and perspectives to create an original interpretation of the source materials.”

Student: Elsie Gribbon
Course: BA (Hons) Interior Architecture and Design

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Modifications by Holly Sharrock

“Despite progress, significant stigma and prejudice around mental health persists in society, whether public, personal or institutional.

“This raises the question of whether society is really caring and welcoming to those with mental health problems.

“This project provides an informative, educational and immersive setting to simulate the experience of poor mental health, with the aim of increasing awareness and understanding.

“In addition, it offers safe and welcoming areas for relaxation and enjoyment, using immersive technologies and biophilic design elements to provide everyone with a friendly escape.”

Student: Holly Sharrock
Course: BA (Hons) Interior Architecture and Design

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In-Tangible by Jozilea Faulkner

“In-Tangible draws inspiration from the core values ​​that have influenced the people of Walsall, aiming to create a thoughtful, community-centred design proposition located within the Grade II listed building The Guildhall.

“Through detailed research, a cohesive marketplace plan has emerged that blends marketplace users and vendors with family gaming and entertainment that reconnects individuals with their environment.

“By integrating local materials, design elements and site features, the aim is to create a warm and welcoming ambience that revives cultural identity and instills in local people a sense of pride in their heritage and roots.”

Student: Josilia Faulkner
Course: BA (Hons) Interior Architecture and Design

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Manga Cultural Center by Jason Lai

“The Manga Cultural Center aims to promote manga culture and connect people through common interests by providing a space for community engagement, events and gatherings.

“Serving as a hub for shared enthusiasm, it can host events, screenings and exhibitions, encouraging cultural exchange and understanding.

“In addition, it can attract tourists interested in Japanese pop culture.

“Educational programs and workshops will provide valuable insights into Japanese art and storytelling, contributing to the city’s cultural diversity and enriching its cultural offerings.”

Student: Jason Lai
Course: BA (Hons) Interior Architecture and Design

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Somewhere in Bengal by Sadia Begum

“A teahouse and garden capture the essence of the Bengal Renaissance, a pivotal period of cultural renaissance in art, literature and theatre.

“Inspired by this rich heritage, the teahouse is a sanctuary for immersion in the intellectual and artistic pursuits of the era.

“The architecture blends traditional Bengali motifs with modern design, honoring the past while embracing the present, and the rooftop garden, enveloped in greenery, reflects the natural beauty that has inspired Bengali poets and artists.

“Mural paintings and intricate carvings depict classical literature and theater scenes, inviting guests to enjoy regional teas and engage in stimulating conversations reminiscent of the Bengal Renaissance.”

Student: Sadia Begum
Course: BA (Hons) Interior Architecture and Design

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The Neighborhood Nook by Lucy Skelton

“The Neighborhood Nook is designed to connect the older and younger generations of Birmingham, with a focus on interaction and sensory eating to teach children the basics of cooking and healthy eating, while encouraging older people, especially those suffering from dementia, to get involved. in everyday activities.

“The community kitchen aims to reduce the risks of social isolation among older people and educate children on how to use basic kitchen equipment to cook healthy meals.

“This space will be based on collaboration between local residents, schools and care homes across Birmingham, building a sense of community between different groups in today’s society.”

Student: Lucy Skelton
Course: BA (Hons) Interior Architecture and Design

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Room 2 Rise Project by Angel Chawner

“The Room 2 Rise project addresses the mental health challenges ex-offenders face, exacerbated by overcrowded prisons in the UK and a lack of support.

“After release, many struggle with stigma, lack of education and employment difficulties.

“The Music Center aims to provide ex-offenders with a safe space for creative expression through music making, songwriting and workshops, supported by professionals.

“The center also includes a cafe that hosts music events, providing employment opportunities and funding for its operations.”

Student: Angel Chawner
Course: BA (Hons) Interior Architecture and Design

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Melomania by Geanina Larisa Lungu

“Mélomanie combines organic architecture with music therapy and a botanical garden to promote mental well-being.

“Extending the benefits of organic architecture to student well-being, music therapy alleviates stress, encourages emotional expression, and improves social relationships.

“The addition of a botanical garden introduces biophilic elements, enhancing the therapeutic environment.

“The approach blends built and natural environments to support emotional well-being, in line with the principles of organic architecture.”

Student: Geanina Larisa Lungu
Course: BA (Hons) Interior Architecture and Design

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Manor Farm Community Hospital by Eloise Mathews

“The Manor Farm Community Hospital project is meeting the UK Government’s operational standard for ensuring timely care for A&E patients, highlighting a gap between target and actual performance.

“By reusing disused agricultural buildings with a sustainable modular approach, the project addresses evolving rural economies while prioritizing community health.

“Based on a desire to develop healthy communities, the design concept investigates ‘movement’ as an integral part of the healing and rehabilitation process.”

Student: Eloise Mathews
Course: BA (Hons) Interior Architecture and Design

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Little Einstein’s Educational Center by D’Amour Davincci Vyfhuis

“The disruptions caused by the pandemic, including school closures and social deprivation, have severely affected children’s learning and mental health, particularly for disadvantaged children.

“The lasting effects of these disruptions, including lockdowns and social distancing, highlight the importance of innovative educational interventions in the early years for socio-emotional development.

“Little Einstein’s Education Hub aims to provide creative education to children aged four to eight, addressing ongoing educational failures, introducing new learning styles and addressing educational inequalities that continue to reverberate long after the pandemic.”

Student: D’Amour Davincci Vyfhuis
Course: BA (Hons) Interior Architecture and Design

Partnership Content

This school show is a partnership between Dezeen and Birmingham City University. Find out more about Dezeen partner content here.