The Architects’ Journal Architecture News & Buildings
About
Location Belfast BT15 | ARB/RIBA courses BA (Hons) Architecture, MArch Architecture | Head of school Neil Hewitt | Full-time tutors 5 | Part-time tutors 10 | Students 150 | Staff to student ratio 1:10 | Bursaries available Yes
Postgraduate
Jordan Taggart
Course MArch Architecture
Studio/unit brief Hidden Barriers
Project title The Restoration Workshop
Project description How can a community timber workshop address the mental health crisis in Belfast? This project responds to that question by proposing a building that offers opportunity for like-minded people of all ages and backgrounds to come together to share skills, experiences and conversation – and ultimately a safe space in which the two communities of Belfast can build relationships. Inspired by Men’s Sheds, it sits in the city’s Short Strand area, and celebrates timber by demonstrating the material’s versatility. It consists of two tower-like structures, clad in transparent polycarbonate, connected through a shared basement. Ultimately, the workshop offers a safe space where people can escape feelings of loneliness.
Tutor citation This project is thoughtful in the way it addresses the core themes of the studio, where the focus is on addressing the less visible urban post-conflict issues that pervade Belfast. It’s a considered response to a challenging site and an even more challenging context. David Coyles
