Strong interest in human-centric design and the role of the built environment in shaping experience. Exploring theories of the self, humanism, and placemaking which have helped my desire to create architecture that is meaningful, experiential, and deeply connected to people.
Through desktop research, site exploration, and interviews carried out in Riga, it is evident that Latvia is struggling to keep its youth.
The armature Solidarity in Identity has arisen from the research. The lack of cohesive definition of the Latvian style during the visit, can be attributed to the Mankurtism suffered during historical oppression.
Through the evidence of solidarity working in uniting the strengthening national identity not only in Latvia’s history but also the Eastern bloc, the purpose of the year long project was to achieve solidarity through defining Latvia’s identity.
The proposal taken forward within the final two phases within the masterplan was the theatre. Theatre has important historical and cultural significance within Latvian independence movements and storytelling. The proposal aims to provide a space for cultural events and plays to thrive, supporting the local artisans and actors, along with strengthening the Latvian identity through the intervention of a style inspired by the prominent Art Nouveau and cultural patterns.
Sketches of new style inspired by cultural patterns
Sketch of staircase incorporating new style
Models inspired by local glass artisan Marta Gibiete
Detail section model of column showcasing the importance of the component in enabling flexibility
Drawing of a comedy play within the proposal
Drawing of tragedy play within the proposal
Foundational to the research dissertation, Unhappy Archives allowed for the exploration of prominent theories of human-centric architecture. Modernism vs ornament has been addressed as restriction vs freedom of expression within architecture; both the A1 visual and video depict the outcomes of both extremities.
Music video produced as part of the Unhappy Archives submission depicting the collapse of control and chaos of freedom
