Each year, first-year architecture students at the University of Cambridge spend their first term designing and building a live project, working to a brief set by a local organisation. Previous projects have seen students build play equipment for the University of Cambridge primary school; install an interactive percussion wall at the Cambridge Junction arts venue, and realise several permanent structures at a local allotment, in conjunction with the charity Cambridge Cyrenians.
This year, the Department of Architecture is working with Queens’ College to create imaginative and engaging spaces to study. Drawing from their own experiences of studying in the most traditional sense, the students are eager to use this project to challenge accepted ideas of what it means to study. Studying is certainly so much more than just reading a book at a desk. By designing structures that will connect students to their environment in new and unexpected ways, we intend to turn the college into a richer space that will spark new and original ideas.
Funding the project
While some of the funding for the project is allocated by the University, it is up to the students to find the money and resources necessary to realise their own designs. Each year they rely on the generosity of family, friends and professional contacts to provide support for their work. In previous years, industry partners have received recognition in local and national press for their involvement in the live project.
Click here to make a donation
No matter how big or small your donation, it will make a large difference to the scope of this project. If you wish to find out more about the Space to Study project or the students' work in general, please get in touch.