Group 31
DROPLETS REIMAGINED

Embracing the ethos of modernity and comfort, we embark on a visionary endeavor to reintroduce the iconic Manchester Airport chandeliers to Terminal 2. Originally gracing the halls of Terminal 1, these majestic fixtures were a beacon of elegance until their removal in 2002 during a period of refurbishment. Their return ignites a wave of nostalgia among travelers, evoking cherished memories of journeys past. In our pursuit to create an environment that is both contemporary and welcoming, the chandeliers will reclaim their status as a focal point within the terminal. Symbolizing the airport's reverence for its history and its unwavering commitment to a sustainable future, this restoration project embodies a harmonious blend of tradition and progress. At the heart of our endeavor lies a deep-rooted connection with the local community, a bond that has flourished over the years. Through channels of engagement, ranging from gathering design inspiration to offering educational programs on history, science, and sustainability, we endeavor to ensure that the community remains an integral part of this transformative journey. This initiative not only offers an opportunity for students to partake in a real-world project but also presents a canvas for creativity and collaboration. By contributing to the restoration of these iconic chandeliers, students will not only enrich their portfolios but also hone their design acumen through meaningful engagement and shared vision.

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Xilong S / Rajan Anilkumar R / Manuela O / Prisha S / Lydia E

Manuela O
Hii! I'm Manuela!

I am a fifth-year architecture student currently studying in Flux Atelier. I completed my undergraduate at De Montfort University and worked for a year as a Part 1 assistant at Maber Architects in Nottingham.

I am interested in how we can combine the cinematic world with architecture and especially all things stage/set design. I love working on small installations and designs that require some thought and theory! I am imaginative and always look for unconventional mediums to inspire how I work within this field.

I am a big traveler, love reading (at least a book a week!), and being active through the gym and runs!

I am looking forward to bringing this project alive and working with you to create a meaningful piece of art that will be displayed for thousands to see as they jet off! ✈️
Posted 11 Mar 2024 12:34
Rajan Anilkumar R
Greetings, I am Rajan.

A native of Mumbai, India, and currently pursuing my studies in M.Arch-1 at CPU [Ai]. My academic journey began at KRVIA, Mumbai, where I immersed myself in architecture, art, and fashion, igniting a fervent passion for creative expression.

With an ardent love for gastronomy, architecture, and art I seamlessly meld my pursuits with my artistic endeavors, crafting a canvas that reflects my imagination. Following my undergraduate studies, I ventured into professional practice and freelance design, driven by an unwavering dedication to the transformative power of art.

Enthralled by the prospect of this collaborative venture, I am particularly drawn to the interplay of chandeliers and installations, viewing them as vessels for the exploration of diverse narratives and interpretations. As an extroverted individual, I find joy in traversing the rich tapestry of global cultures, indulging in pop culture, fashion events, astrology, and culinary experimentation.

Empowered by my proficiency in architectural representation and mixed media, I eagerly anticipate the fruition of this project—a culmination of all that I hold dear. With excitement coursing through my veins, I envision an endeavor brimming with timeless elegance and expressive potential.
Posted 11 Mar 2024 15:51
Lydia E
Hiya, my name is Lydia.

I am an architecture master's student [SKN atelier] who studied their undergraduate course at the University of Bath.

During my two years out and university placement year I have accumulated experience on projects of various scales. Most recently, I have been a Part 1 Architectural Assistant at Leslie Jones in London. This included working on the Birmingham HS2 project and Pittsburgh Airport.

I have also had experience as a Junior Interior Designer at Perkins&Will, as well as mixed-used architecture work here and there for care homes, commercial and residential projects.

My hobbies include painting, reading, gaming, and eating ramen with friends. 🍜
Posted 11 Mar 2024 16:20
Prisha S
Hello, I'm Prisha Shinde!

I'm from Pune, Maharashtra, India. I've travelled my entire life, and one thing that has always captivated me is the distinct architecture of the magnificent towns and nations I've visited. I wanted to study architecture and elope in that world.

I received my Part 1 (Bachelor's in Architecture) from Pune, India. I've also taken a couple online courses on Sustainable Design and Bio-Integrated Design. I've also worked with Amit Bhatt Architects, a well-known architecture practice in Pune, and The Design Gesture, an architectural writing firm. I am afifth-year architecture student currently studying in Praxxis Atelier.

I enjoy travelling, cooking, reading, and coffee is the Love of my Life.

Fun fact: I've never stayed in one area for more than two years. ✈
Posted 11 Mar 2024 16:44
Xilong S
Hihi, I am Xilong Shi.

Hello, my name is Xilong Shi.

I am a passionate year-5 Architecture student enrolled in CPU Atelier. In 2021, I successfully obtained my Bachelor's degree, and in 2023, I completed my Part 1 qualification. I have dedicated two years of my career to working in a specialised sports and leisure architecture practice, where I have developed a keen ability to seamlessly merge creativity with functionality. As a globetrotter, I have explored over twenty countries, allowing me to draw inspiration from diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes. This enriching experience fuels my drive to create captivating and culturally-sensitive architectural designs.
Posted 11 Mar 2024 18:00
Xilong S
On day 1 the team took a trip to Manchester Airports Terminal 2 to visit the site and the collaborator. We spent the morning breaking the ice and getting to know the team, and why they wanted to work on this project. This gave us a good base to start formulating concept ideas.

We embarked on the trip to the airport via train where we met up with Lucy, glass specialist Liam and airport architects where they gave us a tour of the terminal showing us the potential locations which were in the process of construction nearby. We later had a talk where the collaborators introduced themselves and the brief to give the students a good understanding of the project and what the client is looking for.
Posted 16 May 2024 20:44
Xilong S
During our visit to Terminal 2, we captured a memorable group photo with Liam, the glass specialist. Following this delightful moment, we had the pleasure of meeting the collaborator to discuss the project's brief in detail. It was an engaging and productive discussion that set the stage for our collective journey towards creating something remarkable.
Posted 16 May 2024 20:45
Xilong S
On day 2 we gathered together to read the community survey answers and start throwing some ideas around, working together in pairs each group started creating mind maps of initial concept ideas. We then swapped these mind maps with other pairs to build on some of the ideas they found interesting which created a web of detailed sketches that linked to what the community would like to see in the re-introduction of the chandelier.
Posted 16 May 2024 20:45
Xilong S
Later on, we embarked on a trip to St Helens (which saw a derailed train that tried to ruin the trip) to see one of the four chandeliers at the world of glass museum! The experience was great, we were able to see the hanging mechanism and a close up of the glass droplets. We then looked through the interactive museum where we played with interesting glass exhibitions!
Posted 16 May 2024 20:46
Xilong S
The brainstorm map explores different ideas for creating a chandelier. It focuses on themes like nature, social spaces, and visual effects. The map suggests using elements like landscapes, vintage vibes, organic shapes, and dynamic lighting to design the chandelier. Materials like moss, copper, and wood are considered, along with the concept of creating a nostalgic and inviting ambiance. The goal is to make the chandelier evoke a sense of place and encourage interaction and provides innovative and creative ideas for crafting a unique chandelier installation.
Posted 16 May 2024 20:46
Xilong S
This brainstorm map explores designing a chandelier that combines historical and modern elements to represent the timeline of the chandelier and the airport. Key themes include sustainability, using recycled materials, and incorporating northern elements like nature and water. The design aims to be elegant and impactful, creating moments of pause in a busy space. It also considers the diverse audience of an airport, using colors and light to reflect Manchester's vibrant Northern Quarter. The project emphasises a blend of heritage and modernity, connecting past and future.
Posted 16 May 2024 20:46
Xilong S
This brainstorm map outlines a chandelier design that serves as a vertical representation of Manchester's changing history. Key concepts include integrating historical and working-class heritage, creating an interactive and engaging design, and using visual effects to convey fluidity and transformation. The chandelier will feature moving parts and adaptable shapes that change based on the viewer's perspective, offering opportunities to display different images and messages. This design aims to connect past, present, and future while being versatile for various spaces and needs.
Posted 16 May 2024 20:47
Xilong S
The brainstorm map delves into the concept of creating a chandelier that seamlessly merges historical and contemporary elements, symbolising the chandelier's timeline and its connection to the airport. Prominent themes explored in the map encompass sustainability, utilisation of recycled materials, and integration of northern aspects such as nature and water.
Posted 16 May 2024 20:47
Xilong S
The central theme of this brainstorm map is with branches extending outwards to explore different aspects. The map serves as a visual representation of a idea, providing a structured framework for exploration and organisation.
Posted 16 May 2024 20:47
Prisha S
On day 3, we continued to explore and refine the ideas from day two. We focused more on understating new ideas each student had individually. They proposed novel approaches to the identity of the North. It was beneficial to have one-on-one engagement while also determining the three key elements that emerged: Skyline/landscape, Nature/rain, Connectivity, and Materiality.
Posted 17 May 2024 15:20
Prisha S
Day 4 was a fun and insightful visit to Lazerian studio, the artist who collaborated with us, Liam Hopkins. We were given a tour of Liam Hopkins' prior works and a glimpse into his artistic process. Over 50+ boxes of glass droplets were delivered to the studio. We divided into three groups, each capturing a unique sense of the North, to create three major concept designs. Liam demonstrated how the mechanism for suspending the glass droplets works and how it could be integrated into the new chandelier designs. We were able to split everyone into groups depending on how similar the concepts were. This allowed us to develop different concepts into one.
Posted 17 May 2024 15:21
Rajan Anilkumar R
Presentation @ MTC
Today, we presented a collection of proposed iterations to the client. They brought structural engineers, airport directors, Liam, and a camera crew. We provided the client with a brief understanding of the airport and chandelier history and each of the proposed concepts that they will be able to send out to the public to vote on. Each proposal portrays an element of community, connectivity, and landscapes.

We had an opportunity to ask technical questions about how much weight the I beams could hold and about the project's potential carbon footprint. These were all valuable inquiries that we took forward when developing the proposals. The filming crew interviewed some students to ask about the day and why the project is significant to the school and Manchester.
Posted 17 May 2024 15:33
Rajan Anilkumar R
Design Development:
Today, we began developing the 3 concepts, with all students focusing on key ideas. We developed the initial technical designs and placed the concepts into the airport context. We could develop and talk through mechanical concepts and break down the chandelier buildups through materiality.

Proposal 1:
The design encompasses northern identity and provides an immersive experience and a modern twist, which will help it integrate into the new terminal. The artwork can move and alter its shape over time with a kinetic approach. Creating unlimited interest as passengers will experience it differently each time they pass. Due to the complexity, cleaning may take time, but with it being on pulleys or motors, it could be lowered to be cleaned. Furthermore, moving may result in fractures or abrasions over time, which could cause issues. Overall, this design fully comprises the brief, it is striking yet not to abstract or over the top and creates a homage to the norths past.
Posted 17 May 2024 15:41
Rajan Anilkumar R
Proposal 2:
This idea considers the chandelier a connection with the culture and identity of Manchester and the North. It aims to expand the chandelier's design, focusing on branching out from a central point and creating routes through the design using the original pieces and implementing new materials to enhance a visual link between the users, the North in its significance, and the Airport. This was explored by researching what North and Manchester are known for and how to interact and visually communicate that to the users.
Posted 17 May 2024 15:42
Rajan Anilkumar R
Proposal 3:
Through the heritage of the original Manchester chandeliers and the minimalism of Terminal 2, this new design will forge Manchester's next design philosophy while retaining the core heritage of the hard-working Mancunians.

Manchester and North England are rich in various cultures and histories. Through the duality of the historical glass droplets and Terminal 2's new appearance, we explored the element of how shapes interact and merge. The glasses are also reformed into new shapes to create an immersive light interaction and experience both day and night.

The Manchester worker bee not only embodies the design philosophy of the new chandelier but also the city’s identity. It welcomes travelers with a sense of pride and belonging and fosters a connection between the airport and the vibrant culture of Manchester.

Through stunning and unique arrangements of the glass tubes, the new face of the longed chandelier finally returned with a brighter, vibrant, and timeless design in addition to the symbolic identity of Manchester’s beehive.
Posted 17 May 2024 15:45
Manuela O
On day 7 the 3 main design options started to take shape. We drafted scaled drawings of the airport to proportionately fit the designed chandeliers into the proposed locations. The 3 main design options of the chandelier were further refined and selecting the material pallet of each.
Posted 17 May 2024 15:51
Manuela O
On day 8 we focus on the details of joinery as well as the mechanisms incorporated into the designed chandeliers. We composed the 3 posters which displayed the conceptual idea of the chandelier with a QR code to scan and get further details about the designs like the plans, sections, materials, and mechanisms.
Posted 17 May 2024 15:52
Xilong S
Day 9 is the final and last day to work on the Manchester Airport MSA live project where we finally working on the last finishing touches of the submissions. We finished the blogs, publications, booklet and the 3 design options of the chandelier. After winding up with today’s output we celebrated with pizza and wine!

It was an amazing journey of getting a chance to work with Manchester Airport Group and Lazerian studios. We had an amazing opportunity to work with the BA student who came with a fresh breeze of ideas and concepts about the North. We as a team are grateful to be a part of something so endless and chance of touching people with our designs.
Posted 17 May 2024 20:19