The MArch Dissertation Begins

The dissertation subject will be to question: “Can Conservation Architecture continue to adapt to the ever changing urban landscape whilst maintaining its own sense of place?”

In my last dissertation where I looked at Christian churches and concluded that technology, materiality and materialism are highly reflected in the design of modern churches. Now I intend to take it a step further and explore whether those aspects are in keeping with Conservation Architecture. Although we design to allow for a sense of belonging in the environment that constantly changes around us, as well as sticking to a budget, my personal opinion is we are slowly neglecting our sacred architectural traditions.

This is a journey that concludes in January 2017. I am however honoured to have Harriet Devlin as my tutor.

She received an MBE for services to heritage and the environment in the Queen's Birthday Honours List.

She has also worked to preserve a number of historic buildings, including Hermon Chapel in Oswestry, raising £250,000 to fund its restoration.

Already in the initial stages of the dissertation research, I have benefitted from her conservation practice expertise.

I look forward to the months ahead.