Archanaa Thavendrarajah: Drawing Submission

Why Architecture at MSA?

Having spent two years studying Civil Engineering at the University of Manchester, I have grown to appreciate its student offering and the city itself, particularly its architectural heritage and how its industrial past has shaped the urban landscape, which still has relevance today.

Manchester’s 18^th and 19^th century ‘built for purpose’ canals, warehouses, stations, and civic buildings are still in use. For me, the way the city has integrated and adapted these industrial landmarks to 21st century needs to give them a lasting relevance is a mark of great and enduring architecture.

My experiences of MSA, the talks given at the student society, the University’s considerable resources, and in particular its industry connections giving students access to an invaluable learning experience, are key reasons for wanting to study architecture here.

My review of a building recently visited

Alfred Waterhouse’s Natural History Museum is one of London’s most magnificent educational buildings. Its combination of Victorian, Romanesque and Revival styles gives it a magical, almost mythological presence heightened by the exquisite and intricate use of design detailing. This architectural celebration of botany and zoology, inspired by the museum’s collections, makes it a building one can return to repeatedly - a mark of the success of its original purpose. The cathedral-like quality of its entrance hall makes you stop in awe and announces the importance of what lies within.

Statement about my favourite architect

Geoffrey Bawa, my favourite architect, is one of the most influential Asian architects of the 20^st century. His work defined ‘tropical modernism’ and spanned domestic, public, educational, and industrial buildings. Bawa produced ‘sustainable architecture’ long before the term was coined, using vernacular styles characterised by sensitivity to site and context. Bawa’s merging of interior and exterior spaces, where the architecture is almost subsumed by the landscape, is a reflection of the cultural and geographical diversity that represents Sri Lanka. His buildings frame and invite their surroundings so that they become a series of scenic spaces shaped by courtyards and gardens.

Work of architecture you would like to experience in person

Although this is a project I have had the opportunity to contribute to as part of my work experience, it is not yet complete. It is the redevelopment of Grade II listed barn, dating from 1635, into a new Montessori School. I have learned a great deal about the barn’s restoration, which features all of its original frame and timberwork, and how it is being sensitively adapted for a new use without losing its original character. I am eager to see the results of its return to community use in a way that respects its historic importance.

Stone Monuments