Evocative Architecture Summer School

In a world increasingly filled with ‘boring’ architecture, the Evocative Architecture Summer School invites you to reimagine the built environment. The UK sees the demolition of 50,000 buildings annually, contributing to 126 million tonnes of waste. Nearly two-thirds of this waste comes from the construction industry, with the average commercial building in the UK lasting just about 40 years.

Aim

The summer school aims to delve into the concept of aesthetic sustainability. It will explore how the emotional impact of building facades influences our sense of place and the longevity of structures. This program proposes that our minds crave a level of visual complexity akin to what is found in nature. Participants will examine how the built environment affects our emotional state, user experience, psychological well-being, and sense of place through critical design methodologies.

Collaboration and Focus

This initiative is a collaboration between LU-Arc (Loughborough Architecture) and Heatherwick Studio (Humanise campaign). The town of Loughborough will be the initial testbed for the Humanise movement, exploring the relationship between architecture and our emotional states.

Eligibility

The summer school is open to both undergraduate and postgraduate students from diverse educational backgrounds. Whether you are studying architecture, psychology, urban planning, or any related field, your insights and creativity are welcome.

Key Themes

1. Aesthetic Sustainability: Investigate how architectural design can achieve long-term relevance and emotional engagement, reducing the need for demolition and rebuilding.
2. Emotional Impact: Study how building facades and architectural elements shape our emotional responses and contribute to a sense of place.
3. Visual Complexity: Explore the need for visual complexity in architecture, drawing parallels with natural environments and their effect on human well-being.
4. User Experience: Analyze how architectural design influences the experience of users and contributes to their psychological well-being.
5. Longevity and Relevance: Understand how emotionally engaging architecture can enhance the longevity and relevance of buildings.

Methodology

Participants will use critical design methodologies to:

• Unpack the relationship between the built environment and emotional well-being.
• Create designs that foster deeper emotional connections and a stronger sense of place.
• Propose sustainable, aesthetically pleasing architectural solutions that can stand the test of time.

Application Process

Interested students are encouraged to apply by submitting a portfolio of relevant work and a statement of interest. The selection process will consider the applicant’s educational background, creative potential, and interest in the themes of the summer school.

Conclusion

Join the Evocative Architecture Summer School to challenge conventional architecture and contribute to a future where buildings evoke deep emotional connections and promote sustainability. Together, we can create a built environment that not only stands the test of time but also enriches our emotional and psychological well-being.

Finally, find out more on ArchUp: